Overview of Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026 in AI — Fully Funded
Are you ready to shape how the past meets the future? The Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship opens a rare door for curious researchers who want to combine Artificial Intelligence with cultural heritage. This fully funded chance at UCD gives you mentorship, time, and real resources to turn ideas into meaningful work.
If you care about AI, art, or culture, this studentship moves you from concept to impact. The Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship focuses on how digital and born-digital heritage evolve — ideal for people who want to design, question, or protect digital culture.
Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026: Short Details at a Glance
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| University | University College Dublin |
| Degree Level | PhD, Studentship |
| Field of Study | Artificial Intelligence, Ancient Heritage Studies |
| Eligible Students | International Students, Domestic Students |
| Country | Ireland |
| Application Deadline | 16 January 2026 |
Description
The Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship is a four-year, fully funded doctoral opportunity in UCD’s School of Information and Communication Studies. It focuses on AI and Heritage Futures — covering preservation, creation, and regulation of digital and born-digital heritage. This studentship encourages projects that cross technical and social lines and that think about heritage for the long term.
Degree Level
This is a PhD studentship offering doctoral training, supervision, and full financial support for up to four years. The Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship prepares you for research-led careers, teaching, and policy-influencing roles.
Available Subjects
AI technologies for digitalised heritage
AI-generated works as born-digital heritage
AI and cultural policy, regulation, and ethics
The Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship is open to applicants from computer science, information science, digital humanities, law, anthropology, sociology, and public policy.
Benefits
Being awarded the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship includes:
€25,000 annual stipend (tax-free)
€4,000 annual research allowance
Full tuition fee waiver
Priority access to extra travel and research funds, plus teaching opportunities and seminars
This package helps students focus on research, attend conferences, and publish without financial distraction.
Eligible Nationalities
The Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship accepts applicants worldwide. Both EU and non-EU students are encouraged to apply. UCD actively seeks diversity in the cohort.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship, you should normally have:
A relevant Master’s degree (2:1 or equivalent)
Strong English proficiency (CEFR C1 or C2 recommended)
Clear research potential and interest in AI plus heritage studies
Openness to learn new technical or qualitative methods
Meeting these requirements shows readiness for doctoral research under the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship.
Application Procedure
Apply through the UCD online portal with Programme Code: W139. For the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship, prepare:
CV with education, programming or research skills, and referees
Cover Letter (max 1,000 words) explaining interest and fit
Project Outline (max 1,500 words) with aims, methods, and expected outcomes
Academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of English proficiency (if needed)
Two academic referees
For academic queries contact: Dr. Sun Park — sun.park@ucd.ie.
Apply Now
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | 31 January 2026 |
| Interviews (online) | 19–20 February 2026 |
| Offer decisions | March 2026 (approx.) |
| Program start | 18 May 2026 |
About the Supervisor
Dr. Sun Park is an Ad Astra Fellow and scholar in AI and digital cultural heritage. Her background includes policy advising and interdisciplinary projects. Under her supervision, students on the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship can work on projects that mix ethics, law, creative practice, and technical AI tools.
How to Strengthen Your Application
Present clear research questions that matter to heritage and AI.
Show a feasible plan with methods and milestones.
Highlight interdisciplinary skills and any coding or data experience.
Explain how your work will add value to cultural preservation, policy, or public engagement.
Tailor your project outline to the themes of the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship.
Research Environment and Career Paths
UCD offers labs, libraries, and collaborative centers where students of the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship work with scholars across arts, law, and computer science. Graduates often move into academic roles, cultural institutions, policy positions, or industry R&D on heritage technologies.
You can also apply for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships 2026-27
Final Thoughts
If you want to shape how societies keep and understand their digital past, the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship offers a strong, fully funded pathway. With expert supervision, generous funding, and an interdisciplinary network, this studentship supports research that can influence culture and policy.
Official Site: Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026-27
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can apply?
A: Qualified candidates worldwide are welcome to apply for the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship.
Q: Is an AI background required?
A: Not strictly. The studentship values research potential and interdisciplinary thinking. Technical skills can be learned during the program.
Q: Will I get to teach?
A: Teaching assistant opportunities may be available as part of the Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship experience.
Q: Is the stipend taxable?
A: It is typically tax-free, but check local tax law and UCD guidance.
