Closing date: 13 January 2025

Key Information

Funding provider(s):   EPSRC and Faculty of Science and Engineering

Subject area(s):  Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neuro-Symbolic Computing

Project start date(s):  1 April 2025 or 1 July 2025

Supervisors:   Dr Xiaochun Cheng, Professor Xianghua Xie

Aligned programme of study: PhD in Computer Science

Mode of study Full-time or Part-time PhD research is possible.

Project description:

The Artificial Intelligence computing for the discovery of the governing knowledge of real world system is important.  The proposed research aims to integrate symbolic computing with machine learning models. This project develops Explainable Artificial Intelligence Computing for the knowledge discovery application. This project contributes to cutting-edge research in the field of Artificial Intelligence knowledge discovery computing.

This PhD studentship offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of Machine Learning and Knowledge Discovery. The successful candidate will work on this innovative project advancing the frontiers of this exciting field. This project could lead to Artificial Intelligence computing breakthroughs that impact data intensive applications.

The PhD candidate will work with a dynamic team of researchers, led by experts in Artificial Intelligence. The PhD candidate will have access to state-of-the-art research resources and research training.

This project fosters collaborations. The PhD candidate will have the opportunity to work with different experts, enhancing the research experience.

Our PhD program is committed to fostering the professional growth of our students. The PhD candidate will attend workshops, conferences, and networking events to build transferable skills and career prospects.

Eligibility

Applicants for PhD MUST hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level in Computer Science, Mathematics or a closely related discipline, or an appropriate master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University).

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

Applicants should have:

  • A strong background in Artificial Intelligence, machine learning and Knowledge Discovery computing.
  • Research passion for Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Knowledge Discovery computing.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent computer solution research, development, evaluation skills.
  • Excellent academic writing skills.

English Language

IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.0) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here.

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

Scholarship open to UK fee eligible applicants only

Funding

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at £19,237.

Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 will also be available.

How to Apply

To apply, please complete your application online with the following information:

  1. Course choice – please select  as per preferred start date, either -  

    *For April 2025 start select:
    Computer Science / PhD / Full-time / 3 Years / April
    Computer Science / PhD / Part-time / 6 Years / April

     

    OR

    *For July 2025 start select:
    Computer Science / PhD / Full-time / 3 Years / July
    Computer Science / PhD / Part-time / 6 Years / July

  2. Start year – please select 2025
  3. Funding (page 8) –
  4. ‘Are you funding your studies yourself?’ – please select No
  5. ‘Name of Individual or organisation providing funds for study’ – please enter RS718 - Explainable AI'

In the event you have already applied for the above programme previously, the application system may issue a warning notice and prevent application, in this event, please email pgrscholarships@swansea.ac.uk where staff will be happy to assist you in submitting your application.

*It is the responsibility of the applicant to list the above information accurately when applying, please note that applications received without the above information listed will not be considered for the scholarship award.

One application is required per individual Swansea University led research scholarship award; applications cannot be considered listing multiple Swansea University led research scholarship awards.

NOTE: Applicants for PhD/EngD/ProfD/EdD - to support our commitment to providing an environment free of discrimination and celebrating diversity at Swansea University you are required to complete an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Monitoring Form in addition to your programme application form.  

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Monitoring Form (online form) 

Please note that completion of the EDI Monitoring Form is mandatory; your application may not progress if this information is not submitted.

As part of your online application, you MUST upload the following documents (please do not send these via email):

  • CV detailing your academic and research background
  • Degree certificates and transcripts
  • A cover letteroutlining your research interests and motivation for pursuing this project
  • Two academic references 
  • PhD Research Plan detailing how you plan to do the research
  • Evidence of meeting English Language requirement (if applicable)
  • Confirmation of submission of EDI Form

*For ALL scholarship applications from February 2023 an EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) Monitoring Form is required.

Informal enquiries are welcome; please contact Dr Xiaochun Cheng (Xiaochun.cheng@swansea.ac.uk 

*External Partner Application Data Sharing – Please note that as part of the scholarship application selection process, application data sharing may occur with external partners outside of the University, when joint/co- funding of a scholarship project is applicable.