PhD in Visualisation: Developing and Visualising a Retrieval-Augmented Deep Learning Model for Population Health

PhD in Visualisation:

Developing and Visualising a Retrieval-Augmented Deep Learning Model for Population Health

City, University of London - Department of Computer Science

Qualification Type: PhD

Location: London

Funding for: Home applicants only

Funding amount:

Tuition fees (Home) and an annual tax-free stipend of £21,000/year

Hours: Full Time

Closes: 30.11.2023

Applications are invited for a PhD studentship in the Department of Computer Science. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on an exciting interdisciplinary project and join a world-class research group in visualisation and visual analytics (the giCentre).

The Project:

Retrieval-based machine learning (ML) models enable data to be supplemented by relevant information, retrieved from auxiliary databases and “memories”. This enables the explainability of decisions made by the model and makes previously acquired knowledge accessible to human decision-makers. 

In healthcare, routinely collected data typically cannot be entirely relied upon to make predictions for specific adverse events. Furthermore, explainable aspects (such as feature attribution) can be misinformed by the complex and incomplete nature of the data. This project will aim to:

1. Develop a ML model that uses retrieval-based query augmentation to build outcome predictions based on a multitude of linked data sources.
2. Develop a visual analytics interface that supports feature engineering and decision provenance.

Eligibility and requirements 

The candidate should have a e.g., first, or upper second-class degree in Computer Science or a related area. They should demonstrate aptitude for original research. An MSc in a relevant area would be an advantage.

Scholarship: The studentship is for 3.5 years and will provide an annual tax-free stipend of £21,000 and tuition fees (Home only). 

An extra £1,500/year salary supplement will be offered to all successful candidates from underrepresented communities. In particular, the stipend supplement will be reserved for female, LGBTQ+ and disabled applicants.

Additional income: Each student may also have the opportunity to earn around £2,200/year on an average (max. is around £4,300/year) through a teaching assistantship.

The candidate should possess a good understanding of machine learning and data visualisation. A candidate who demonstrates exceptional aptitude in one or more of these areas (as evidenced, for instance, through strong academic credentials or research) may be accorded preference. Ideally, the successful candidate should have proven skills in user experience (UX) design and web development. 

If you are interested in applying, please address any initial informal enquiries to:

Dr Mai Elshehaly (Mai.Elshehaly@city.ac.uk) or Professor Jo Wood (J.D.Wood@city.ac.uk)

How to apply

Online applications should be submitted via the Funding page by clicking the 'Apply' button, above.

For queries regarding the application process, please contact pgr.sst.enquire@city.ac.uk

City, University of London is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all its activities, processes, and culture for our whole community, including staff, students, and visitors.

We welcome applications regardless of age, caring responsibilities, disability, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital status, nationality, pregnancy, race and ethnic origin, religion and belief, sex, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background. City operates a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants.

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