Courses and Scholarship Announcement – University College Dublin (UCD)

Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026 in AI (Fully Funded)

About University College Dublin (UCD)

University College Dublin is one of Europe’s leading research universities and Ireland’s largest institution of higher education. With a strong reputation in artificial intelligence, cultural heritage studies, social sciences, and advanced interdisciplinary research, UCD provides a globally recognized academic environment. The School of Information and Communication Studies (ICS) is known for its innovative work at the intersection of technology, society, and heritage.

PhD Studentship Overview

UCD is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in AI and Heritage Futures: Preservation, Creation, and Regulation of Evolutionary Heritage from Digitalised to Born-digital. The program begins on 18 May 2026 and is supervised by Dr. Sun Park, an expert in AI and Digital Cultural Heritage.

Degree Level

PhD (up to four years) under the School of Information and Communication Studies.

Available Subjects

The PhD covers interdisciplinary topics including:

• AI technologies for digitalised heritage

• AI-generated digital heritage

• AI policy, cultural regulation, and heritage governance
  Suitable for applicants with backgrounds in Computer Science, Information Science, Digital Humanities, Heritage Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, Law, or Public Policy.

Benefits

• Annual tax-free stipend: €25,000

• Research allowance: €4,000 per year

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Additional research and travel funding

• Teaching assistantship opportunities

Eligible Nationalities

Open to all nationalities, including EU and non-EU students.

Eligibility Criteria

• Master’s degree (2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant field

• Strong English proficiency (CEFR C1 or C2)

• Demonstrated research potential in AI, heritage, or interdisciplinary studies

• Willingness to acquire new technical or analytical research skills

Application Procedure

Applications must be submitted via the UCD online portal using Programme Code: W139.

• Application Deadline: 31 January 2026

• Interview Dates: 19–20 February 2026 (online)

• Start Date: 18 May 2026

Required Documents

• Updated CV with academic referees

• Cover Letter (maximum 1,000 words)

• Project Outline (maximum 1,500 words)

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• English proficiency evidence (if required)

Program Summary

This fully funded PhD offers a unique opportunity to engage in advanced interdisciplinary research linking Artificial Intelligence and global cultural heritage. With expert supervision, strong financial support, and an innovative academic setting, the program prepares researchers to shape the future of digital cultural preservation.

For academic questions, applicants may contact the supervisor at sun.park@ucd.ie.