Applications are now open for a fully funded PhD scholarship at University College Dublin (UCD) in Ireland. This 4-year programme focuses on Hyper-personalisation and Filter Bubbles in Digital News Ecosystems.
It is hosted by the School of Information and Communication Studies (ICS). The scholarship is fully funded and open to both EU and non-EU students. There is no application fee.
Key Details:
- Degree Level: PhD (Doctoral Research)
- Host University: University College Dublin (UCD)
- Host Country: Ireland
- Location: Dublin (In-person)
- Duration: 4 years full-time
- Start Date: 31 August 2026
- Application Deadline: 22 June 2026
- Stipend: €25,000 per year
- Open to: EU and non-EU students from all nationalities
What This Scholarship Offers:
- A generous annual stipend of €25,000 to cover living costs for 4 years
- €5,750 per year to help pay tuition fees
- €4,500 per year for attending conferences
- €3,000 for research equipment
- €5,000 for research materials
- Access to extra training funds and a structured PhD programme through a national centre for Data Science and AI
- Opportunity to join a group of other PhD students for workshops, peer learning, and industry placements
- Chance to gain teaching and tutoring experience
- Support for publishing papers, presenting at conferences, and building your academic network
- Enrichment activities such as academic visits or industry training
Eligibility Criteria:
- Hold a strong Master’s degree (2:1 or higher) in a relevant field
- Background in Computer Science, Information Science, Media and Communications, Journalism, or related areas
- Strong skills in technical, quantitative, or qualitative research methods
- Willing to learn new tools and mixed-methods approaches
- Excellent English language skills (C1 or C2 level recommended)
- Good organisational skills and ability to work independently and in a team
- Must meet UCD’s standard entry requirements
Eligible Fields:
- Computer Science
- Information Science
- Media and Communications
- Journalism
- Political Science
- Psychology
- International Relations
How to Apply:
- Submit your application through the national Research Ireland centre for Data Science and AI
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview (expected in late June or early July)
- Successful candidates will then complete the formal UCD application
Documents you need to prepare:
- Academic transcripts and CV
- Statement of interest or research proposal
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. For questions, email Dr. Brendan Spillane at brendan.spillane@ucd.ie.
