ASTON UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
Multimodal, privacy-preserving, low-cost ambient sensing for the remote agentic AI-enabled monitoring of respiratory diseases
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Fully-fundedFunding Type
- BirminghamLocation
- 3 YearsProgramme Length
- Leading academicsStudy with Experts
- Supportive communityResearch Environment
- Specialist facilitiesResources
This doctoral research focuses on developing an innovative, low-cost, and privacy-preserving ambient sensing system for remotely monitoring respiratory diseases, specifically chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), within home environments. The system aims to facilitate early detection of health deterioration by passively collecting and analyzing behavioral and physiological data. By integrating ambient audio monitoring for respiratory symptoms and video-based pose estimation for physical activity tracking, the project seeks to improve the reliability of health assessments. The research also explores the use of agentic AI models, including large language models, to interpret aggregated patient data and provide explainable health insights, ultimately supporting early intervention and preventative care for chronic respiratory conditions.
Frequently asked questions
- Who is eligible to apply for this PhD program?
- This specific PhD project is open to Home students only. International applicants are not eligible for this particular project.
- What are the academic entry requirements?
- Applicants need a first-class or upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, in a relevant field like chemical engineering, energy engineering, environmental engineering, chemistry, or energy systems. A relevant master's degree is desirable but not essential.
- Is this PhD program fully funded?
- Yes, this project is fully funded for Home students. It covers all tuition fees, provides a stipend for living costs at UKRI rates, and includes a Research Training and Support Grant.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The programme length for this doctoral research is 3 years.
- What documents are required for the application?
- Required documents include English language transcripts and certificates, a Research Statement, a Personal Statement, a CV, two academic references, and a copy of your passport. English language proficiency evidence and settled/pre-settled status evidence (if applicable) are also needed.
- What is the application deadline?
- The application deadline for this programme is June 1, 2026.
Entry requirements
Honours DegreeFirst-class or upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent qualification, in a relevant discipline such as chemical engineering, energy engineering, environmental engineering, chemistry, or energy systems.
Master's DegreeA relevant master’s degree is desirable but not essential.
SkillsStrong knowledge of multimodal analysis, machine learning, and advanced AI reasoning, especially for medical applications. Proficient in programming and use of simulation environments. Proven technical writing skills, preferably demonstrated by publications.
This project is open to Home students only. International applicants are not eligible for this specific project.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)Full tuition fees covered by funding.
LivingEstimated living costs covered by a stipend at current UKRI rates. Candidates are responsible for relocation expenses.
This project is fully funded for Home students, covering all tuition fees and providing a stipend for living costs. A Research Training and Support Grant is also included. Relocation expenses to Birmingham and campus visits are the responsibility of the candidate.
How to apply
1. Prepare your academic documentsGather English language copies of your transcripts and certificates for all higher education degrees, including any Bachelor's degrees.
2. Write a Research StatementCompose a Research Statement detailing your understanding of the research area, your proposed approach to the project, and a brief review of relevant literature. Ensure you use the exact title of the research project you are applying for. There is no set format or word count.
3. Write a Personal StatementPrepare a personal statement outlining any additional information relevant to your application, such as your suitability for research, career aspirations, future research interests, and relevant employment experience.
4. Create your Curriculum Vitae (CV)Develop a comprehensive CV (Resume) detailing your education and work history.
5. Obtain academic referencesSecure two academic references who can attest to your suitability for independent research. References must be on headed paper, signed, and dated no more than 2 years old. At least one reference should be from your most recent university. You may submit references at a later date if necessary.
6. Submit English Language evidence (if applicable)Provide evidence that you meet the English Language requirements. If you do not currently meet these requirements, you can submit this at a later stage.
7. Provide a copy of your passportInclude a copy of your passport. If applicable, also include evidence of settled or pre-settled status.
8. Select Research GroupWhen submitting your application online, ensure you select 'EPS Computer Science' as the Research Group.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible to apply for this PhD program?
+
This specific PhD project is open to Home students only. International applicants are not eligible for this particular project.
What are the academic entry requirements?
+
Applicants need a first-class or upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, in a relevant field like chemical engineering, energy engineering, environmental engineering, chemistry, or energy systems. A relevant master's degree is desirable but not essential.
Is this PhD program fully funded?
+
Yes, this project is fully funded for Home students. It covers all tuition fees, provides a stipend for living costs at UKRI rates, and includes a Research Training and Support Grant.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The programme length for this doctoral research is 3 years.
What documents are required for the application?
+
Required documents include English language transcripts and certificates, a Research Statement, a Personal Statement, a CV, two academic references, and a copy of your passport. English language proficiency evidence and settled/pre-settled status evidence (if applicable) are also needed.
What is the application deadline?
+
The application deadline for this programme is June 1, 2026.