Fully Funded Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
The Ireland PhD Studentship 2026 at the University College Dublin (UCD) offers a fully funded opportunity for exceptional researchers. This competitive program focuses on Artificial Intelligence and Heritage Futures and begins on 18 May 2026. As one of the leading University College Dublin Scholarships, this studentship is hosted by the School of Information and Communication Studies under the supervision of Dr. Sun Park, a distinguished expert in AI and Digital Cultural Heritage.
Degree Level
This award supports doctoral research for up to four years. Students gain access to academic mentorship, structured training, and full funding. The UCD PhD Scholarship for International Students is designed to support motivated candidates committed to advanced research.
Available Subjects
The PhD covers a broad interdisciplinary scope that connects Artificial Intelligence with cultural preservation. Research areas include:
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AI technologies for digitalised heritage
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AI-generated content as born-digital heritage
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Cultural policy development and AI regulation
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Technical, ethical, and social dimensions of digital heritage
These areas make the Fully Funded PhD in Artificial Intelligence suitable for applicants from varied fields, including Computing, Digital Humanities, Anthropology, Sociology, Law, and Public Policy.
Benefits of the UCD PhD Studentship
As one of the most attractive Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026 opportunities, this program provides:
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A tax-free annual stipend of €25,000
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A research allowance of €4,000 per year
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Full tuition fee waiver
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Priority to school-level travel funding
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Opportunities for academic training and teaching
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A supportive research community in one of Europe’s top universities
Eligible Nationalities
This doctoral award is open to all nationalities. Both EU and non-EU applicants are encouraged to apply. UCD promotes inclusivity and strongly welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this AI and Heritage Futures PhD, applicants must:
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Hold a Master’s degree with at least a 2:1 or equivalent result
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Demonstrate English proficiency at C1 or C2 level
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Showcase research interest in AI, heritage, or digital preservation
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Be ready to learn technical, analytical, or qualitative methods
Application Procedure
Candidates must apply through the official UCD portal using Programme Code: W139.
Important Dates:
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Application Deadline: 31 January 2026
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Online Interviews: 19–20 February 2026
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Program Start: 18 May 2026
Required Documents:
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Updated CV with educational background and skills
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Cover Letter (up to 1,000 words)
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Project Outline (up to 1,500 words)
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Academic transcripts and certificates
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Proof of English language proficiency
- Apply directly through UCD Application Portal
For academic questions, contact Dr. Sun Park at sun.park@ucd.ie.
About the Supervisor: Dr. Sun Park
Dr. Sun Park is an Ad Astra Fellow and Assistant Professor at UCD specialising in AI and Digital Cultural Heritage. Her research explores AI-generated works as heritage, AI regulation, and human-AI creative collaboration. Her experience with UNESCO enhances the global perspective of this Digital Cultural Heritage Research Ireland doctoral program.
Conclusion
The UCD PhD Scholarship for International Students in AI and Heritage Futures provides an outstanding opportunity to engage in innovative research. With full funding, world-class supervision, and a diverse academic environment, this program equips researchers to shape the future of cultural heritage preservation through Artificial Intelligence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this PhD studentship fully funded?
Yes. It includes a full tuition waiver, annual stipend, and research support.
2. Who can apply?
All nationalities are eligible to apply, including EU and non-EU students.
3. What backgrounds are accepted?
Applicants from Computer Science, Anthropology, Sociology, Law, Digital Humanities, and Public Policy are welcome.
4. Are programming skills required?
No. The program accepts both technical and non-technical applicants.
5. What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 31 January 2026.
6. How long is the program?
The PhD studentship covers up to four years of study.
7. Do I need English proficiency proof?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate C1 or C2 proficiency if English is not their first language.
8. Who supervises this PhD?
The program is supervised by Dr. Sun Park, a specialist in AI and Digital Cultural Heritage.
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