UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH · UNITED KINGDOM
Centre for Doctoral Training in Artificial Intelligence for Biomedical Innovation PhD with Integrated Study
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€0k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 4 years full-time or 6 years part-timeStudy Duration
- Fully Funded (stipend, tuition, research/travel grant)Funding
- Interdisciplinary FocusKey Feature
- 3-month placement projectsPractical Experience
- September 2026Start Date
- No application feeApplication
This PhD with Integrated Study focuses on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address critical global health challenges, aiming to improve healthcare systems and patient outcomes. The program trains interdisciplinary researchers with both technical AI skills and essential biomedical domain knowledge. Graduates will be equipped to develop and implement innovative AI solutions across public and private sectors. Designed for individuals with varying levels of prior computer science and mathematics exposure, including clinicians, allied health professionals, and biological/biomedical scientists, the program covers responsible and open AI research, bias minimisation, and model explainability for clinical use. Research is structured around four themes: AI for Genomic Medicine, AI for Biomedical Imaging, AI for Cellular and Molecular Systems Medicine, and AI for Biomedical & Health Informatics. The goal is to produce highly competent researchers capable of contributing to both academia and industry.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for this PhD programme?
- You need a UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in a related field such as computer science, AI, mathematics, biomedical science, or clinical sciences. Specific English language proficiency scores are also required for IELTS, TOEFL-iBT, C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency, Trinity ISE, Oxford ELLT, or Oxford Test of English Advanced.
- Is this PhD programme fully funded?
- Yes, the CDT funding covers a stipend, tuition fees, and a research/travel grant for 4 years of full-time study. However, you will need to cover visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) yourself.
- What is the duration of the programme and when does it start?
- The programme is 4 years full-time or 6 years part-time. The next cohort starts in September 2026.
- What are the application deadlines?
- The application deadline for the next cohort is 20 January 2026.
- How is the programme structured?
- This is a 4-year PhD with integrated study combining intensive PhD research with taught courses, transferable skills training, and partner engagement. It includes compulsory and elective courses in the first three years and culminates in a 3-month placement project.
- What are the estimated living costs for international students?
- Estimated living costs for 2026-2027 are £18,504 per year, which includes accommodation, utilities, food, and local travel. Actual costs will vary based on personal choices.
Entry requirements
UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalentIn a related field such as computer science, AI, cognitive science, mathematics, physics, engineering, biomedical science, biological science, or clinical & public health sciences.
IELTS Academic6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component
TOEFL-iBT (before 21 January 2026)92 overall with a minimum of 20 in each component
TOEFL-iBT (from 21 January 2026)4.5 overall with a minimum of 4.0 in each component
C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE)176 overall with a minimum of 169 in each component
Trinity ISEISE II with distinctions in all four components
Oxford ELLT7 overall with a minimum of 6 in each component
Oxford Test of English Advanced145 overall with a minimum of 135 in each component
English language tests must be no more than two years old on the 1st of the month your programme starts (or three and a half years for other accepted tests). A degree taught and assessed in English from a majority English-speaking country or an approved university in a non-majority English-speaking country is also accepted. If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country, your degree must be no more than five years old.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are fully covered by the CDT funding for all students.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are fully covered by the CDT funding for all students.
LivingEstimated living costs for 2026-2027 are £18,504 per year (£1,542 per month). This includes accommodation, utilities, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel. Exact costs vary based on personal choices and accommodation type.
The CDT funding covers a stipend, tuition fees, and a research/travel grant for 4 years of full-time study. It does NOT cover visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for international students, which must be covered by the student.
How to apply
1. Review Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements specific to this PhD programme. These are available on the programme page.
2. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather all necessary documents including your personal statement and information about your skills and experience. Specific requirements for this CDT are detailed on its dedicated website.
3. Submit Your ApplicationApply through the university's online application portal. The deadline for applications to the next cohort is 20 January 2026. Ensure your application is complete and accurate before submission.
4. Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)If you require a student visa, you may need an ATAS clearance certificate to study this programme. You will be advised if this is required after you apply.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for this PhD programme?
+
You need a UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in a related field such as computer science, AI, mathematics, biomedical science, or clinical sciences. Specific English language proficiency scores are also required for IELTS, TOEFL-iBT, C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency, Trinity ISE, Oxford ELLT, or Oxford Test of English Advanced.
Is this PhD programme fully funded?
+
Yes, the CDT funding covers a stipend, tuition fees, and a research/travel grant for 4 years of full-time study. However, you will need to cover visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) yourself.
What is the duration of the programme and when does it start?
+
The programme is 4 years full-time or 6 years part-time. The next cohort starts in September 2026.
What are the application deadlines?
+
The application deadline for the next cohort is 20 January 2026.
How is the programme structured?
+
This is a 4-year PhD with integrated study combining intensive PhD research with taught courses, transferable skills training, and partner engagement. It includes compulsory and elective courses in the first three years and culminates in a 3-month placement project.
What are the estimated living costs for international students?
+
Estimated living costs for 2026-2027 are £18,504 per year, which includes accommodation, utilities, food, and local travel. Actual costs will vary based on personal choices.