Ireland University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026 in AI (Fully Funded)

Are you passionate about exploring the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Cultural Heritage? The University College Dublin (UCD) is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in AI and Heritage Futures: Preservation, Creation, and Regulation of Evolutionary Heritage from Digitalised to Born-digital, starting on 18th May 2026. This prestigious opportunity is available at the School of Information and Communication Studies (ICS) under the supervision of Dr. Sun Park, a leading expert in AI and Digital Cultural Heritage.

This is a fully funded PhD scholarship in Ireland that includes:

• Annual stipend: €25,000 per year (tax-free)
• Research allowance: €4,000 per year
• Full tuition fee waiver
• Priority access to additional travel and research funding from the School of Information and Communication Studies
• Opportunities for teaching assistantships and seminars

This studentship provides an exceptional environment for academic growth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development in one of Europe’s top universities.

This is a PhD-level studentship offered by the University College Dublin (UCD) under the School of Information and Communication Studies. The program provides full financial support for up to four years of doctoral research.

The PhD focuses on AI and Heritage Futures, covering diverse interdisciplinary topics such as:

• AI technologies for digitalised heritage
• AI-generated works as born-digital heritage
• AI-Heritage policy and cultural regulation

Students can explore both technical and non-technical aspects of AI in the heritage sector, making it ideal for those with backgrounds in Computer Science, Information Science, Anthropology, Sociology, Law, or Public Policy.

Applications are open to all nationalities - both EU and non-EU students are encouraged to apply. UCD particularly welcomes women and people of color to promote diversity in research.

To be eligible for this UCD PhD scholarship 2026, candidates must:

• Hold a Master’s degree (2:1 or equivalent GPA) in relevant disciplines such as Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Science, Digital Humanities, Heritage Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, Public Policy, or Law.
• Demonstrate strong English proficiency (C1 or C2 level under CEFR).
• Show research potential and an interest in AI, digital heritage, and interdisciplinary methods.
• Be willing to learn new technical, analytical, or qualitative research skills as required by the project.

Interested candidates must apply via the UCD online application portal using Programme Code: W139.

• Application Deadline: 31st January 2026
• Interviews: 19th–20th February 2026 (online)
• Start Date: 18th May 2026

Required Documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including education history, programming skills (if applicable), research projects/publications, and two academic referees.
• Cover Letter (max 1,000 words) explaining your interest and suitability for the PhD.
• Project Outline (max 1,500 words) detailing your proposed research topic, aims, methods, and expected outcomes.
• Academic transcripts and certificates.
• Proof of English Language Proficiency (if applicable).
• Apply directly through: UCD Application Portal
• For academic inquiries, contact Dr. Sun Park at [email protected].

About the Supervisor – Dr. Sun Park

Dr. Sun Park is an Ad Astra Fellow and Assistant Professor in AI and Digital Cultural Heritage at UCD. Her research focuses on the value of AI-generated works as digital heritage, AI policy development, and human-AI collaboration in art creation. She has previously worked with UNESCO and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO, making her an ideal mentor for students interested in global cultural policy and AI ethics.

Conclusion

The University College Dublin PhD Studentship 2026 in AI and Heritage Futures is a rare opportunity to explore the future of cultural preservation through Artificial Intelligence. With full funding, global eligibility, and expert supervision, this program empowers researchers to bridge technology and tradition - shaping how humanity preserves and interprets digital heritage for generations to come