University of Cambridge PhD in Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence 2027: Applications Open for Interdisciplinary AI Doctoral Research
The University of Cambridge offers a full-time or part-time doctoral programme focused on interdisciplinary, human-centred artificial intelligence research. Applications for Michaelmas 2027 entry are open until 8 December 2026.
Overview
The University of Cambridge PhD in Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence is an interdisciplinary doctoral programme hosted by the Centre for Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence (CHIA) within the Institute for Technology and Humanity (ITH). The course combines technical AI research with human-centred disciplines such as ethics, governance, social sciences, health, and humanities. Students may study full-time (3 to 4 years) or part-time (4 to 7 years) starting on 1 October 2027.
Eligibility
- Applicants are generally expected to hold a First-class Honours degree or international equivalent, with master’s-level preparation or relevant experience considered highly desirable.
- Candidates must demonstrate substantial quantitative and technical preparation for the computational, mathematical, and programming components of their proposed research.
- Meeting rigorous English-language proficiency requirements is mandatory if applicable (e.g., an overall IELTS score of 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each component, or a TOEFL iBT overall score of 110 with at least 25 in each section).
Benefits
- Engage in specialized research across areas such as fundamental human-level AI, social and interactive AI, cognitive AI, creative AI, health and global AI, and responsible AI.
- Gain access to cross-disciplinary supervision, research seminars, and the CHIA early-career academic community.
- International students who receive an offer and require a visa can apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
How to Apply
- Develop a Research Proposal: Prepare a mandatory research proposal of no more than two A4 pages outlining the topic, methodology, and concrete objectives.
- Contact a Prospective Supervisor: Applicants must contact a prospective supervisor from CHIA’s Primary Research Supervisor list to discuss the project before applying.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, two references, a Relevant Experience statement, a Reasons for Applying statement, and English language evidence if required.
- Submit Online: Complete the application and submit materials through the official Cambridge applicant portal. Ensure references are received by the deadline.
Deadline
The main application and course funding deadline is 8 December 2026. Applicants seeking consideration in the Gates Cambridge U.S. round face an earlier funding deadline of 14 October 2026.