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University of Edinburgh

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SPADS studentship

PhD with Integrated Study in Sensing, Processing, and AI for Defence and Security University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

All students receive a studentship covering tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend. The programme states an enhanced stipend, with a 2025/26 rate of £24,245; TechFirst funding offers £30,000 tax-free stipends for students entering in 2027/28 who are eligible for home fee status. A limited number of international studentships are available. Funding also includes a research training and support grant and access to facilities and cohort training events.

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Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Edinburgh

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Keywords

Computer Science
Signal Processing
Electrical Engineering
Mathematics
Artificial Intelligence
Sensor Technology
Technical Engineering
Physics
Multi-agent System

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About this position

Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) PhD with Integrated Study in Sensing, Processing, and AI for Defence and Security (SPADS) at the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University.

This doctoral programme focuses on artificial intelligence, sensing, signal processing, hardware design, autonomous sensing platforms, multi-agent systems, and data intelligence for defence and security applications. The programme is jointly hosted by the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University, with research and training across engineering, informatics, maths, and related disciplines.

Students undertake a PhD with integrated study (4 years full-time or 8 years part-time) with mandatory taught components and research from day one. The programme includes industry-driven research, placements, cohort training, and access to facilities such as the Edinburgh International Data Facility, the National Robotarium, and the Scottish Microelectronics Centre.

Funding: all students receive a studentship covering tuition fees and an annual stipend. The programme mentions an enhanced tax-free stipend (2025/26 rate £24,245), TechFirst funding with £30,000 tax-free stipends for eligible home-fee-status students entering in 2027/28, and a limited number of international studentships. A research training and support grant is also included.

Eligibility: applicants should normally hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related discipline. Applicants with significant industrial experience or relevant professional qualifications may be considered case by case. English language requirements apply. Applicants requiring ATAS clearance are not eligible, and successful applicants must complete BPSS checks.

How to apply: read the SPADS application guidance and submit an application via the EUCLID portal. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, English language evidence, two academic references, and supervisor/project details if relevant. Applications are considered on a gathered-field basis until places are filled, so early submission is recommended.

Funding details

All students receive a studentship covering tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend. The programme states an enhanced stipend, with a 2025/26 rate of £24,245; TechFirst funding offers £30,000 tax-free stipends for students entering in 2027/28 who are eligible for home fee status. A limited number of international studentships are available. Funding also includes a research training and support grant and access to facilities and cohort training events.

What's required

Applicants need a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related discipline. Candidates with significant industrial experience or relevant professional qualifications and at least a bachelor's degree in an appropriate subject may be considered case by case. English language proficiency is required, and applicants must meet the programme's English language requirements. Applicants requiring ATAS clearance are not eligible, and successful applicants must undergo BPSS recruitment checks.

How to apply

Read the School of Engineering CDT SPADS application guidance and submit your application through the EUCLID portal. Include the required documents such as a cover letter, CV, transcripts, degree certificates, English language evidence, two references, and supervisor/project details if applicable. Apply as early as possible; applications are reviewed on a gathered-field basis until places are filled.

More information can be found here

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