The Research Ireland Rinn network, launched in June 2026, represents a major national investment in research excellence, innovation, and societal transformation. With a total investment of €2.85 million, the initiative aims to address the most pressing global challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration, cutting-edge research, and strong partnerships across academia, industry, government, and civil society.
Rinn Artificial Intelligence serves as Ireland’s national hub for AI and data science research. Its mission is twofold:
- To advance foundational, world-leading research in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
- To promote open, international, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary research that develops strategies to address societal, cultural, economic, and environmental challenges.
As part of this initiative, University College Cork (UCC) is offering 19 fully-funded PhD studentships within its Futures for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics programme. These positions span multiple research themes and disciplines, ensuring a diverse and inclusive cohort of future AI leaders.
Programme Structure and Training Experience
Alongside their individual PhD research, students will participate in a structured, cohort-based training programme designed to build advanced academic, technical, and professional skills. This includes:
1. Transferable Skills Training
- Communication skills
- Ethics and responsible research
- Entrepreneurship and innovation
2. Group-Based Activities
- Hackathons
- Spin-out sprints
- Collaborative workshops
3. Domain-Specific Training
- Machine learning
- Statistics
- Data management
- Programming
- Qualitative methods
- Digital policy methods
4. Peer-Led Learning Opportunities
- Research seminars
- Peer-designed workshops
- Reading groups
5. Career and Skills Development
Students will receive tailored support to prepare for careers in academia, industry, and public service.
Industry Engagement and Enrichment Opportunities
Each PhD candidate will benefit from extensive engagement with industry and public sector partners. Enrichment experiences may include:
- Industry training placements
- Academic research visits to internationally renowned institutions
- Other professional development activities
These experiences are designed to equip graduates with the skills and networks needed to thrive in diverse career pathways.
Funding Details
Each PhD scholarship is valued at €150,000 and includes:
- €25,000 annual stipend for four years (tax-free)
- Funding for conference travel, equipment, and training
- Full tuition coverage for EU students
- Fee waivers for non-EU students provided by University College Cork
Application Review Process
- Applications are reviewed every two weeks.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
- Successful candidates must later apply formally to UCC following institutional requirements.
- UCC strongly encourages applications from under-represented groups and is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
For more information about this opportunity and to apply visit here
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