PhD Studentship in AI-Powered Optical Design for Cinematic Camera Lenses
Develop AI-driven computational tools to revolutionize camera lens design and simulation.
Best for:Best for candidates with a strong background in computer science, electronic engineering, or applied mathematics, who are eager to merge AI, computational imaging, and optics to solve real-world design challenges.
Overview
This PhD studentship at the University of Surrey focuses on creating an innovative computational framework that merges computer vision, computer graphics, and machine learning to accelerate and enhance the design and simulation of camera lenses. Traditional lens design is time-consuming and relies heavily on expert-led iterations. This project aims to replace this process with data-driven, differentiable rendering models that enable forward simulation (predicting imaging outputs) and inverse design (generating lens architectures to meet specific imaging goals). The work will bridge cutting-edge AI research with real-world industrial applications, fostering collaboration with industry partners. Applicants should be technically strong, interdisciplinary, and passionate about translating research into practical engineering solutions.
What you'll do
- Develop a computational framework combining computer vision, computer graphics, and machine learning to automate and optimize camera lens design.
- Design and implement differentiable rendering models to predict imaging outputs from lens configurations.
- Create inverse design algorithms to propose lens architectures that meet specific imaging and perceptual objectives.
- Collaborate with industry partners to ensure the practical applicability of the developed tools.
- Conduct research and publish findings in top-tier academic conferences and journals.
- Present research progress at internal and external seminars and conferences.
Requirements
Degree required: A first-class or high 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in computer science, electronic engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or a closely related discipline. A Master’s degree in a relevant field is preferred.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency appropriate for academic study and research in the UK
Instruction: English
- Strong mathematical foundations in linear algebra, optimization, probability, and numerical methods.
- Experience in computer vision, computer graphics, or machine learning.
- Excellent programming skills in Python and/or C/C++ with experience using machine learning frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow.
- Familiarity with rendering, simulation, or physics-based modeling (e.g., ray tracing, differentiable rendering, optics, or photometric modeling).
- Open to UK and international candidates.
- No specific age or residency restrictions mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-17
Applicants must submit their application through the Vision, Speech and Signal Processing PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal, upload a document stating the project title and the relevant supervisor’s name. Ensure all required documents are submitted as per the programme guidelines.
- CV
- Document stating the project title and supervisor’s name
- Transcripts of previous degrees (BSc and MSc if applicable)
Contact
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