Multi-modal endoscopic and surgical AI

Computer vision has been widely used in various industries, including healthcare. While deep learning transformed several developments, the use of multimodal AI has strengthened it further. However, they require a careful understanding of what is reliable information in the big and diverse data scenarios. The idea of the PhD project is to develop and innovate new methods that can provide insights into meaningful information while using multiple modalities such as clinical text data, imagery, voice recordings and videos. The PhD candidate will have an opportunity to work with leading world experts in an interdisciplinary environment.<br /> <br /> The successful PhD candidate will work with experts in the field of computer vision/Machine learning, consultants gastroenterologists/endoscopists and surgeons. They will have an opportunity to directly understand both the technical developments and advancement needed from expert computational scientists and understand the broader surgical landscape with an expert clinical team. They will be integrated directly into the AI for Medicine and Surgery group (https://artificial-intelligence.leeds.ac.uk/aims/) who have a world leading reputation on delivering high-quality research.

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences</strong></em> (if you do not apply under this programme code, your application will not be considered), in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <strong><em>Multi-modal endoscopic and surgical AI</em></strong> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/computing/staff/11465/dr-sharib-ali">Dr Sharib Ali</a> as your proposed supervisor and that the funding you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2026/27: Computer Science.</strong></em></p> <p>Applications for the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award will be considered after the closing date of Friday 30 January 2026.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p><strong>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 30 January 2026 for the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including grading scheme</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> <p><strong>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</strong></p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.5 overall with at least 6.5 in writing and at least 6.0 in reading, listening and speaking or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

<p>A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award, providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£20,780 in academic session 2025/26) for 3.5 years.  Training and support will also be provided.<br /> <br /> This opportunity is open to UK applicants only.  All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p>Please note that there are only 2 funded places available to UK applicants only and this project is in competition with several other projects to secure this funding.  If you are successful in securing an academic offer for PhD study, this does not mean that you have been successful in securing an offer of funding.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For information about this project, please contact Dr Sharib Ali by email to <a href="mailto:EMAIL@leeds.ac.uk">s.s.ali@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>