PhD Studentship in AI for Understanding Dementia Modifiable Risk Factors
Design an explainable AI system combining large language models and causal inference for early dementia risk prediction.
Best for:Best for computer science or AI graduates with an interest in healthcare applications, large language models, and causal inference.
Overview
The University of Exeter's Department of Computer Science invites applications for a fully-funded four-year PhD studentship as part of the GW4 BioMed3 MRC Doctoral Landscape Programme. The successful candidate will develop advanced AI models integrating scientific knowledge, large language models, and causal inference to better understand personalised dementia risk factors. The project focuses on constructing causal knowledge graphs from literature and questionnaires, followed by transformer-based integration to improve clinical pathways for early dementia prediction. The researcher will join a collaborative network offering comprehensive training, mentorship, and additional research support funding.
What you'll do
- Design and implement AI systems integrating scientific literature and questionnaire data for early dementia modeling
- Construct comprehensive causal knowledge graphs derived from published scientific papers and cognitive test datasets
- Integrate knowledge graphs with transformer-based large language models and advanced causal learning techniques
- Conduct rigorous evaluations of personal risk factor models to ensure clinical interpretability and explainability
- Collaborate across the GW4 BioMed3 partnership and participate in required doctoral training activities
Requirements
Degree required: BSc or MSc in Computer Science or related quantitative or biomedical field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; standard university proficiency standards apply
Instruction: English
- Strong background in computer science, artificial intelligence, or machine learning
- Programming proficiency in languages such as Python
- Familiarity with machine learning frameworks and transformer architectures
- Analytical mindset with an interest in causal inference or graph-based modeling
- Open to UK and international students
- Must meet standard entry requirements for doctoral study at the University of Exeter
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-21
Applicants must review the project details and submit their application through the official University of Exeter funding and admissions portal. Ensure all required academic transcripts, statements, and supporting documents are uploaded prior to the deadline.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
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