Nanostructured Neural Architectures PhD 2026

Artificial intelligence is transforming society but comes with a growing energy and carbon cost. This project will explore new nanostructured materials and device architectures that can deliver brain-inspired computing with radically improved energy efficiency.

You will design and fabricate nanoscale neural elements using emerging semiconductors, such as 2D materials, ferroelectric polymers, and hybrid organic–inorganic systems, exploring their potential for in-memory sensing, learning, and computation. By integrating these materials into scalable device arrays, the project aims to create neuromorphic systems capable of energy-efficient information processing.

Summary

1. Application Deadline: 17 July 2026
2. Value: Fully funded (tuition + stipend)
3. Category: Fully Funded, STEM
4. Study Level: PhD
5. Sponsor: University of Southampton
6. Host Country: United Kingdom
7. Eligible Countries: All Countries

Eligibility Criteria for Nanostructured Neural Architectures PhD 2026

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in one of the following:

1. engineering
2. electronics
3. physical sciences

or another relevant subject.

You should have an interest in multidisciplinary research and an aptitude for data analytics as well as other skills relevant to one or more of the core themes within the AI for Sustainability CDT.

Academic attainment is only one of our criteria for selection; we equally value the ability to work in teams, excitement for research, enthusiasm for the research focus of the CDT and the ability to communicate ideas. EU and Overseas applicants should achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each competency.

Benefits of Nanostructured Neural Architectures PhD 2026

1. Fully funded (UK and international)

How to Apply

Apply now

You need to:

1. choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
2. select Full time or Part time
3. search for programme iPhD AI for Sustainability (9220)
4. add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

1. research proposal
2. your CV (resumé)
3. 2 academic references
4. degree transcripts and certificates to date
5. English language qualification (if applicable)

For more details, visit University of Southampton Scholarship webpage

Application Deadline

July 17, 2026

Application Link(s)

• Apply for Nanostructured Neural Architectures PhD 2026