Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Shape the Future of Audiences, AI, and Creative Technologies

ADAPT-AI is seeking passionate researchers and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to join our innovative doctoral training programme exploring how audiences experience and engage with creative technologies and artificial intelligence.

What is ADAPT-AI?

ADAPT-AI (Analysing and Diversifying Audience Participation with Creative Technologies & AI) is one of just ten AHRC-funded Doctoral Focal Awards in the UK. We’re training the next generation of leaders who will shape how audiences interact with immersive experiences – from VR and AR to AI-powered creative content.

Working with world-leading cultural venues including Serpentine Arts Technologies, Southbank Centre, Barbican Immersive and more, you’ll develop cutting-edge research skills alongside practical expertise in machine learning, extended reality, ethical audience analysis, and inclusive participation methods.

Why ADAPT-AI?

We value many paths to doctoral research. Whether you come from academic study, professional practice in creative industries, or have taken a non-traditional route to research – your unique perspective & experience are what we’re looking for.

You’ll join a consortium of three distinctive London institutions:

King’s College London – expertise in digital humanities and AI
London South Bank University– strengths in media production and community engagement 
Guildhall School of Music & Drama– world-leading performance and creative practice

Plus, you will have access to cutting-edge facilities, millions of audience members annually through our partners, and a supportive community of researchers working at the intersection of creativity and technology.

Three Ways to Apply

• Collaborative Doctoral Awards (CDAs)
• Industry Defined Challenges
• Independent Proposals

Our Three Research Themes

Audience Interfaces – How AI and creative technologies enhance audience analysis and engagement

Audience Interaction – Novel methods for audience participation and interaction

Audience Integration – Integrating diverse audiences into cultural experiences

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applications from people with:

• Academic qualifications in relevant fields (arts, humanities, creative practice, social sciences)
• **or** significant professional experience in creative industries, technology, audience development, or related sectors
• A passion for understanding and diversifying audiences
• Interest in ethical and responsible use of creative technologies
• Commitment to inclusive research practices

We recognise that excellence comes in many forms. If you have deep professional expertise, creative practice experience, or have overcome barriers to reach this point – we want to hear from you.

Funding Package

Funding will be for 3.5 years (full time) or 7 years (part time).
Both UK and international applicants are eligible, and up to 30 per cent of studentships can be applied to international applicants.

• Full tuition fees covered
• Annual stipend (UKRI rate: £22,780 (incl LWA) full time for 2025/26)*
• Research training and support
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities
• Opportunities to attend conferences and workshops

* The CDA pathway attracts an additional £600 uplift to the stipend.

Please note: UK Visa and Health surcharges are not covered as part of the funding for international students

How to apply

Application deadline:  13 February 2026

Shortlisting will take place after applications close during February/March 2026

Interviews will take place during March 2026

Outcomes will be notified during April 2026

Start date: October 2026

Funding will start 1 October 2026.

Term dates at each Higher Education Institution may differ – please refer to their website for details.

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