PhD Studentship: Fully Funded PhD Position in Generative AI & Multimodal LLMs (University of Surrey & A*STAR, Singapore)

We are inviting applications for a 4-year PhD position at the University of Surrey (UK) and A*STAR (Singapore), focusing on cutting-edge research in Generative AI and Multimodal Large Language Models (LLMs).

The selected candidate will work on advancing resource-efficient generative AI and multimodal LLMs, with applications across diverse domains. The project will explore innovative techniques for efficient training, inference, and deployment of large-scale generative models.

Study Structure: 2 Years study at the University of Surrey, UK and 2 Consecutive Years study at A*STAR, Singapore

Supervisors:

• Dr. Xiatian Zhu(University of Surrey) – Expert in computer vision, generative AI, and multimodal learning.
• Dr. Xun Xu(A*STAR, Singapore) – Researcher in data and resource efficient deep learning.

Entry requirements

Open to candidates who pay UK/home rate fees. See UKCISA for further information.
Starting in July 2025. Later start dates may be possible, please contact Dr Xiatian Zhu once the deadline passes.

You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme.

Candidate profile:

• A strong academic background (Master’s or First-Class Bachelor’s) in Computer Science, Machine Learning, AI, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills (Python, PyTorch, TensorFlow) and experience in deep learning.
• A solid understanding of generative models (e.g., GANs, VAEs, diffusion models) and LLMs.
• Due to funding restrictions, preference will be given to British nationals or those eligible for home fee status. International students who are willing to pay the 2 years tuition fee difference at Surrey are also eligible.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit the following documents to contact Dr. Xiatian Zhu <xiatian.zhu@surrey.ac.uk> and Dr. Xun Xu <xu_xun@i2r.a-star.edu.sg>.

1. A CV detailing research experience and publications (if any).
2. A cover letter explaining research interests and fit for the position.
3. Academic transcripts.

This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of AI research while gaining international experience in both the UK and Singapore. Join us in shaping the future of Generative AI and Multimodal LLMs.

Funding

Full 4-year PhD scholarship, covering tuition fees and a competitive stipend, for UK home students. For oversea students, the same but need to pay the tuition fee difference for 2 years (around £43K).

Relocation Support: Includes airfare, housing allowance, and relocation support when visiting A*STAR.

Application deadline: 14 March 2025

Enquiries: Contact Dr Xiatian Zhu and Dr Xun Xu

Ref: PGR-2425-027

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