Funding
The BBSRC / QMUL Doctoral Focal Award in Advanced AI for Multi-modal Spatial Biology provides fully funded PhD studentships aimed at producing outstanding, independent future leaders in computational approaches for spatial biology, developing the latest data science, AI and machine learning techniques.
From October 2026, the DFA will recruit nine PhD students annually over a three-year period. Each successful applicant will be awarded a four-year studentship, providing comprehensive financial and academic support within a vibrant, multidisciplinary research environment at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL).
Each studentship includes:
Financial Support
- Annual stipend: A tax-free stipend paid at the current UKRI minimum rate of £23,805 for 2026/27 (including London weighting), with annual uplifts.
- Tuition fees: Full payment of tuition fees for both home students and overseas students appointed within the programme’s overseas allocation.
Overseas applicants are advised that the awarded funding does not cover visa-related costs or the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Overseas students are required to meet these costs in full prior to the commencement of their studentship. Please see the Queen Mary University of London CAS & Visa webpage for more information.
Research & Training Support
- Research training support grant (RTSG): Up to £20,000 over the duration of the PhD to support project-related costs.
- Additional Conference travel funding: Opportunity to apply for a travel bursary to support conference attendance.
- DFA Flexible Fund: Access to competitive funding to support a wide range of research and training activities.
Additional Benefits
- Further funding opportunities: Appointed students are eligible to apply for the QMUL Postgraduate Research Fund, which provides additional support for conference travel and professional development activities.