The UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) In Practice-Oriented Artificial Intelligence is training the next generation of AI innovators, equipping them with the expertise and skills to co-design and build practice-oriented AI systems for science and research domains of key national importance.

Practice-oriented AI aims to bridge the gap between complex problem domains and state-of-the-art AI algorithms and techniques. Our innovative, cohort-based 4-year training programme will deliver highly-trained PhD graduates with the transferable skills and deep AI expertise to solve societally important problems in a variety of domains in responsible ways.

If this appeals to you please browse these pages to get a feel of the training programme we offer, what kind of applicants we are looking for, and how to apply.

We are now accepting applications for September 2027 entry.

September 2027 entry application deadlines

• 1st round deadline: 30 October 2026
  Applications received by the 30 October will be considered for possible interview on 9 December or 10 December. Candidates shortlisted for an interview will be advised by the 19 November. 

• 2nd round deadline: 26 February 2027
  Applications received by the 26 February will be considered for possible interview on 13 April or 14 April.

• Final round deadline: 14 May 2027
  Applications received by the 14 May will be considered for possible interview on 22 or 23 June.