Bring your perspective to AI: CCAI opens applications for September 2027
Ella Walters 
Applications are now open for fully funded PhD opportunities at Northumbria’s Centre for Doctoral Training in Citizen-Centred AI, welcoming applicants from a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds.
What could your perspective bring to the future of AI? The UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in Citizen-Centred Artificial Intelligence (CCAI) at Northumbria University is recruiting its fourth cohort of doctoral researchers, starting in September 2027.
You do not need to arrive as an AI specialist. We welcome applicants from technical, social scientific, design, humanities, legal and professional backgrounds who want to investigate AI in ways that centre citizens and communities.
Applicants are invited to develop a research proposal connected to one of CCAI’s six strategic challenges. These provide opportunities to explore how AI intersects with people’s lives and how citizens can help shape its development and use.
A PhD within a research community
CCAI combines doctoral research with interdisciplinary training and opportunities to learn alongside researchers with different experiences and expertise.
Researchers can build connections through partner collaboration, public engagement, conferences and summer schools. A dedicated CDT workspace and cross-cohort activities provide space to exchange ideas, share progress and support one another.
Funding and study options
Full-time and part-time opportunities are available. Studentships include tuition fees, a stipend and research training funding.
For September 2027 entry, eligible full-time students with home fee status will receive an enhanced annual stipend of £30,000 through the government’s TechExpert programme. Full funding and eligibility details, including arrangements for international and part-time applicants, are available on our application page.
Support to develop your proposal
Prospective applicants can request feedback on a draft research proposal before submitting their application. This offers an opportunity to strengthen ideas and identify areas for further development.
The deadline to request proposal feedback is 11 December 2026. Applications close on 11 January 2027 17:00 GMT.
