3 years (full-time)
Informatics PhD (Machine Learning, Computational Neuroscience and Computational Biology)
Informatics · PhD / Doctorate
Doctoral research in the Institute for Machine Learning (IML) at the University of Edinburgh's School of Informatics — one of the UK's largest and most prestigious academic teams in its fields — spans machine learning, computational neuroscience and computational biology: probabilistic methods that find patterns in data applied to problems from astronomy to health sciences, the study of how the brain processes information, and computational strategies for biological data. PhD study runs three years full-time (six part-time) with an MScR option, and most PhD students in Informatics receive full scholarships covering tuition fees and living costs.
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Course snapshot
Full-time, Part-time
September
International
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland
About this programme
Applicants need a UK 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) typically in an area of informatics such as artificial intelligence, cognitive science or computer science, with programming experience; degrees in engineering, linguistics, mathematics, philosophy, physics or psychology may also be considered, and most IML research requires prior training in mathematics. Before applying, candidates must identify an advertised project or supervisor, then apply through the EUCLID portal with a research proposal, CV and two academic references. Applications are open year-round, with School of Informatics funding deadlines for September entry; ATAS clearance may be required for visa students. English: IELTS Academic 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component.
What you will need
Qualifications
- UK 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) typically in informatics — artificial intelligence, cognitive science or computer science — with computer programming experience
- Degrees in engineering, linguistics, mathematics, philosophy, physics or psychology may also be considered; most IML research requires prior training in mathematics
Subjects
- Informatics
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Programming
English language
IELTS Academic total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component; TOEFL-iBT and other accepted qualifications at equivalent levels (as published)
Fees & costs
Tuition category: International
Verify current tuition with the provider. Most PhD students in Informatics receive full scholarships covering tuition fees and living costs (School of Informatics funding, as published).
Official programme information: https://study.ed.ac.uk/programmes/postgraduate-research/489-informatics-iml-machine-learning-computational-neuroscience
Course fees vary by institution and programme. We can help you understand the likely costs for your study plan and destination before you commit.
Where this programme can take you
Industry demand
IML research suits a career in academia and commercial research posts, and many alumni have launched very successful careers in academia and industry.

