PhD Studentship - Automating Behavioural Observation to Understand the Effects of the Environment on Health - [FSE PhD President's Doctoral Scholarship]

Overview

The University of Manchester, through the Department of Computer Science, offers a 4-year PhD studentship titled Automating Behavioural Observation to Understand the Effects of the Environment on Health. This interdisciplinary project focuses on developing and validating an automated version of the Method for Observing pHysical Activity and Wellbeing tool using computer vision and AI-enabled systems. The studentship is expected to start in September 2027 and is in competition for funding with other projects, meaning funding is typically awarded to projects that attract the strongest applicants.

Who can apply

This opportunity is open to both Home and international applicants. Candidates should hold, or be expected to obtain, a minimum Upper Second-Class Honours degree or an international equivalent in a relevant discipline. A background in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, or a related quantitative subject is desirable. Applicants should also have an interest in machine learning and data analysis, alongside some experience in programming and computational methods. Experience in computer vision, deep learning, video analysis, or related areas is advantageous but not strictly essential.

What you get

The successful candidate receives an annual stipend at the UKRI minimum rate, which is currently £21,805 per year, plus an annual enhancement of £1,000. In addition, a research training support grant of up to £20,000 is provided for the full 4-year programme.

Requirements

Applicants must contact the main project supervisor, Prof Caroline Jay, prior to applying to learn more about the project and discuss its suitability. Formal submission requires applying through the online portal and selecting the FSE PhD President's Doctoral Scholarship programme. The application must specify the full title and supervisor of the project, provide details of previous study, and include the names and contact details of two referees. Candidates are also required to upload a CV, transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications, and a supporting statement describing their motivation for applying. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.

How to apply

Interested candidates must set up or log into an applicant account via the online portal to open and complete an application for the FSE PhD President's Doctoral Scholarship. Ensure all required documents, including the supporting statement, CV, transcripts, and referee details, are fully uploaded before the closing date.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2026-12-18. The project is expected to start in September 2027.