UKRI AI CDT in Dependable and Deployable AI for Robotics (CDT-D2AIR)
UKRI AI CDT in Dependable and Deployable AI for Robotics (CDT-D2AIR)
Answers to common questions are listed below. If you can't find the answer to your question, or you have other queries about the CDT-D2AIR programme or application process, please feel free to contact us.
When will the next round of applications open?
We are now accepting applications for full-time student positions on CDT-D2AIR starting in September 2027. Please see the application page for more information.
What happens after I submit my application?
All applications will be reviewed by the CDT-D2AIR team after the submission deadline as passed. Selected applicants will be invited to the next stage of the application process, which will consist of an online interview. The results of the interview stage will be assessed by the CDT-D2AIR team and successful applicants will receive an offer to join the CDT-D2AIR programme. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, a precise timeline for interviews and final decisions is not possible. Tentative timelines are provided on the application page. All applicants will be informed as to the outcome of their application.
Are CDT-D2AIR studentships open to international applicants?
Yes, studentships are open to all nationalities, either UK-based or international applicants. All applicants who are offered a studentship will receive a funding package that covers all university fees, an annual stipend for 4 years, and funds for equipment and travel during the programme. Studentships for international applicants are limited and highly competitive. We expect a high number of applications for these positions.
Do I have to submit the results of an English language test?
Regardless of your nationality, all applicants must satisfy the university's English language requirements. If English isn't your first language, this usually means supplying evidence in the form of an English language test, which you should include with your application. However, there are other conditions which may mean that a test is not necessary. Please check the university's English language requirements webpage (Section 10 - postgraduate research students) for a complete list of conditions and the tests we accept.
Where do my references send their letters of support? What is the deadline for reference letters?
Reference letters should be sent directly to CDT-D2AIR by emailing them to: cdt-d2air@hw.ac.uk. We recommend that you contact your referees directly to arrange for reference letters to be sent, rather than requesting them through the application system. All reference letters must be received by the application deadline.
Do I need to submit a research proposal with my application?
No, applicants do not need to submit a research proposal. Instead, you should ensure that you complete and submit the CDT-D2AIR Supplementary Information Form with your application. Please see the application page for more details.
Do I need to contact a potential supervisor before I apply?
No, applicants do not need to contact potential supervisors before they apply to the programme, although some applicants choose to do so. During Year 1 of the programme, students will define their PhD project and support will be provided to help students choose a supervisory team that is appropriate for the research they would like to do. When completing the CDT-D2AIR Supplementary Information Form for your application, please list any potential supervisors.
When do I get assigned a research project?
Research projects are not assigned to students and applicants do not need to pre-select a research project before they apply to the programme. Instead, during Year 1 of the programme, students define their PhD projects and form their supervisory teams as part of the core training programme. We aim to ensure that students have a project (partially) defined and a supervisor allocated by the end of their first semester on the programme. During the application process, applicants should share their research interests and thoughts on potential supervisors on the CDT-D2AIR Supplementary Information Form.
Can I study online or part time?
No, CDT-D2AIR is only able to accept full-time students with an in-person study option.
When does the programme start?
The next intake of students will start their programme in September 2027.