UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in Biomedical Innovation (AI4BI CDT)

UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in Biomedical Innovation (AI4BI CDT)

Artificial intelligence has immense potential to tackle the major global health challenges, optimise healthcare systems and improve patient outcomes. The greatest challenge to realising this potential is translation of AI research into real-world use. Our CDT aims to address this challenge by training interdisciplinary researchers who would possess the technical skills, biomedical domain knowledge, and experience developing and implementing innovative AI approaches in the private and public sectors.

This is a flexible cohort based 4-year PhD programme with integrated study that has embedded training in innovation and entrepreneurship. Our model is suitable for both those with relatively little prior exposure to computer science and mathematics, but who contribute essential biomedical knowledge, and those with backgrounds in computer science, mathematics or physics who wish to develop and apply methodologies to biomedicine.

Well-rounded training and development, collaboration and engagement opportunities provided to the students through our programme will turn them into highly competent, sought-after researchers suitable for a variety of careers both inside and outside of academia.

Join us 2025 intake

Applications are now open for September 2025 start. Visit our website to see the selection of PhD projects to choose from and find out how to apply.

Deadline: 20 January 2025

Apply now

CDT Programme at a Glance

• Innovative interdisciplinary training programme with a focus on application of novel methods to real-world challenges to improve health outcomes for patients and benefit society.
• Supervision by at least two expert researchers, covering expertise in artificial intelligence and biomedicine from world-leading research groups across the University of Edinburgh.
• Each PhD project features close collaboration with an external partner from the industry or public sector.
• Access to the world-class interdisciplinary research community of the School of Informatics, and state-of-the-art facilities including unique data and computational resources.
• Opportunities for research placements and internships with our UK and international partners across different sectors.
• Tailored training in stakeholder engagement, science communication, career planning, leadership skills, and responsible research AI practices.
• Generous support for entrepreneurship and startup development
• Diverse programme of CDT events including masterclasses, summer schools, hackathons, retreats, and partner engagement days.

Research

Students on our programme undertake research in a variety of areas, developing and applying novel AI methods to real-world biomedical challenges. The CDT research expertise spans four key research themes:

• AI for Biomedical Imaging
• AI for Biomedical and Health Informatics
• AI for Cellular and Molecular Systems Medicine
• AI for Genomic Medicine

Each theme has a variety of PhD projects that you can apply to for September 2025 start.

See projects on offer

Student support for all needs

The CDT seeks to foster an inclusive and accessible environment where everybody feels supported and respected.

CDT programme offers tailored support and flexible working patterns to meet individual student needs. Studies can be undertaken on a part-time basis to accommodate students wishing to combine their studies with work or personal responsibilities. All CDT studentships are fully funded and have provisions for sick pay, parental leave and disabled students support. We also provide individual coaching sessions to students from underrepresented groups to support their PhD journey and post-PhD career choices.

Find out more

Funding

Funding covers tuition fees and a stipend (£19,237 in 2024/25) for 4 years, and an individual budget for travel and research costs.

Both UK and international students are eligible for the funding. Learn more about eligibility and entry criteria here. 

For any enquiries please contact the team at ai4bicdt@ed.ac.uk