Computing Research (MPhil/PhD)
Apply advanced computing research to solve real-world and societal challenges
Key information
PhD
Duration: 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time
Fees (UK / Overseas): Annual tuition fees apply and vary by student status and study mode.
See fees and funding
Start date: April 2026 / October 2026 / February 2027
Other research degree routes
MPhil:
A shorter research degree, often a pathway to PhD
PhD by Publication:
For researchers with an existing body of published work
Course summary
- Conduct independent, original research in Computing, supported by academics working at the leading edge of the field.
- Investigate themes including artificial intelligence and machine learning, cybersecurity, privacy and digital infrastructure for business
- Research the ways in which computational intelligence, paradigms and algorithms can be used in robot-enhanced therapy, limb motion recognition, and autism spectrum disorders intervention.
- Produce a body of work you can publish and share, with the potential to influence practice, policy or innovation in your sector.
Find a supervisor
Why choose Computing at Portsmouth for research?
Specialist research facilities
Access high-tech laboratories, including multimedia studios, a large-scale 3D immersive Virtual Reality room, advanced motion capture facilities, and advanced interface devices used for Intelligent Systems Research Support.
Expert support, every step
You'll work closely with your supervisory team and have access to our Doctoral Development Programme that will help you plan your project, sharpen your methods and build your researcher confidence.
A connected research community
You’ll join a community of researchers across disciplines, with seminars and opportunities to collaborate; it’s a place where you can think deeply, get honest feedback and build networks that last beyond your doctorate.
5th
out of the modern universities for research quality in computer science and informatics.
Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
PGR Research Excellence Framework — Computing 183%
of our impact was rated as having very considerable or outstanding reach and significance.
Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
PGR Research Excellence Framework — Computing 375%
of our research outputs were judged to be internationally excellent or world-leading.
Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
PGR Research Excellence Framework — Computing 2
What our PhD students say
Studying computer science exposed me to innovative ways of achieving many things.
I learned how to program and devise electronic platforms/solutions for real-life scenarios including business and economy.
The experienced professionals and academic infrastructures made my learning experience a robust one."
Research areas in Computing
Explore the work we're doing across the four areas of expertise in our Computing research. Including funded and self-proposed research opportunities.
View available PhD projects and see funded opportunities.
Health and Wellbeing Technologies
We're improving the design of computer systems and wellbeing services to make the delivery of healthcare more efficient and cost-effective, and we're exploring how technology can influence lifestyle choices and reduce health risks.
Cyber Security and Forensics
We're exploring solutions to emerging cyber security challenges and dealing with crime in the cyberspace
Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
Our research is exploring practical applications of AI and data science for solving business problems and societal challenges
Robotics
Our research is exploring the use of robotics and advanced sensor technologies for rehabilitation, diagnostics, and assisted living applications
Research degree options in Computing
We offer several postgraduate research routes in Computing, including PhD, MPhil and PhD by Publication. Find out about our research degree opportunities below, including how to apply, entry requirements and funding your degree. You can apply for an existing project or propose your own research idea. For more detailed information about the application process, visit our How to Apply pages.
Available PhD and MPhil projects
You can apply for a pre-approved PhD or MPhil project, or develop your own research proposal.
There are currently no funded PhD projects available in this area — for more information on funding your own research project, visit our pages on funding your research degree.
- A Novel Framework for Robot Training and Tutoring Using Natural Language
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Adversarial AI for Password Security and Analysis in Digital Investigations
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Adversarial Attacks and Robustness in Malware Analysis using Large Language Models
- AI applications in Health Technologies
- AI-Driven Analysis of Online Misogyny
- AI-Driven Detection of Misinformation Propagation in Healthcare Systems
- Air Quality Assessment and Decarbonization Modeling for Portsmouth International Port: Utilising Environmental Drones and Digital Twins
- Ambient Assisted Living Technologies
- Analytics Theory and Applications for Teaching Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Best practice on design of personal health records: Practitioners perspectives and experiences on improving quality of care
- Blocks-based environments for learning programming in text-based languages
- Data fusion and multimodal learning for Ambient Assisted Living
- Decision support for public security using explainable artificial intelligence
- Deep Learning Models for Health Informatics
- Developing UK energy portfolio strategy using Machine Learning modelling
- Development of a framework for IoT Forensics
- Development of AI technologies to identify ocular disease
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Economic Impact of Port Decarbonisation on Public Health: International Port of Portsmouth
- Edge Computing for Ambient Assisted Living
- Enhancing Text Mining through Advanced AI and Machine Learning Techniques for Knowledge Discovery
- Exploit Learning Related Emotion to Improve students Engagement and Motivation in Higher Education
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Explore 3D Vascular Modeling for Surgical Planning and Training
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Federated Learning for Anomaly Detection in Open RAN (O-RAN)
- Human-Robot Collaboration for Agile Logistics and Warehouse Operations
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Human-Robot Collaboration Through Multi-Modal Interaction for Intuitive and Efficient Communication
- Improving student retention: identifying at risk students at very early stages using machine learning
- Integrated AI framework for grasp and manipulation of intelligent robots
- Intelligent Human-Robot Interaction for Rehabilitation
- Intelligent sensing and control of a novel rehabilitation robot
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Large Language Models (LLMs) based Security Solution for 5G/6G Networks
- Leveraging AI and Real-Time Litter Data with Spatial Clustering for Policy Development and Environmental Impact Assessment
- Leveraging Remote Sensing, Object Detection, and Vision-Language Models for Intelligent Disaster Management and Response.
- Machine learning approach to identifying side channel attacks on cloud computer systems
- Machine Learning Framework for Classification of Celestial Objects in Huge Datasets of Multi-spectrum Sky Survey
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Machine Learning Models for Predicting Prosthetic Joint Infections from Clinical and Genomic Data
- Multi-Modal Interaction for Improved Human-Robot Collaboration
- Multi-modal Intelligent Sensing and Recognition for Human-Robot Interaction collaboration
- Optimisation of Machine Learning and Deep Learning Algorithms on Heterogeneous Computing Systems
- Optimising Human-Robot Teaming in Healthcare Assistance
- Outcome and Mortality Prediction in Intensive Care Units using Machine Learning
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Pattern-of-Life Analysis Using LLMs for Digital Investigation
- Predicting Psychosis Journeys: A Data-Driven Approach with Predictive Modeling
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Privacy preservation and knowledge access control in Large Language Models
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Quantum Machine Learning to Secure Internet of Medical Things
- Real-time Efficient On-road Obstacle Detection Using Fusion of Optical Imagery and Lidar Cloud Points on Edge in Autonomous Vehicles
- Real-time Efficient Small Object Detectors On UAV-based (Drone) images Using Neural Architecture Search (NAS) for Surveillance and Security applications
- Reinforcement-based Security Solution in Software-defined Intrusion Detection System
- Robust Realtime Lightweight Fruit Disease Detection on Small-Form Platform Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Optical Imagery
- Scalable Transfer Learning in Heterogeneous, Dynamic Environments for Robotic Arm
- Security Challenges and Solutions in Modern Transportation Networks
- Self-adaptive machine learning methods for outcome prediction in real-world complex datasets
- Self-learning for computer vision asset management
- Semantic Identification of objects of interest using Convoluted Neural Networks
- Skill Learning Framework for Human–Robot Interaction and Manipulation Tasks
- Smart Digital Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Prediction using Machine Learning and AI
- Smart Energy and Performance Optimisation Framework for Modern Computing Platforms Using Deep Learning and Data Analytics
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Smart Energy-Efficient Computing: A Deep Learning Approach to Sustainable ICT Systems
- Split Learning for Malware Detection
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Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Computing through Deep Learning and Data Analytics
- Sustainable and Robust Federated Learning for Cyber threats Detection in 5G Networks
- Strategic aspects of blockchain technologies
- Technology enabled abuse in the context of domestic violence
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The Algorithmic Gaze: Mapping Social Media Trends and Their Impact Using Artificial Intelligence
- The problem of anonymisation on graph data
If you already have a research idea, find a supervisor whose research interests match yours by searching our Find a PhD Supervisor page. Once you've identified someone suitable, contact them to discuss your idea.
PhD by Publication
A PhD by publication is a postgraduate research degree based on research you've already undertaken and had published (excluding self-publishing) before registering with us.
Eligible research outputs include peer-reviewed academic papers, complete books or chapters in anthologies, and other materials accepted for publication, exhibited or performed. You'll have to submit these materials for examination between 6–12 months after registering with us.
From October 2026, all PhD by Publications will be completed by distance learning. However, there is no expectation that any student applying for a start date before this should be on campus.
Entry requirements
The entry requirements for a PhD, MPhil or Professional Doctorate include an upper second class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, or a master’s degree in an appropriate subject.
Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications may be considered. All applicants are subject to interview.
If English is not your first language, you'll need English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Fees and funding
April 2026
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Full-time and full-time distance learning: £5,006 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time and part-time distance learning: £2,503 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
(Including EU Scholarship)
- Full-time and full-time distance learning: £5,006 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time and part-time distance learning: £2,503 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Full-time and full-time distance learning: £19,200 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time and part-time distance learning: £9,600 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- External candidates: £5,006
- Members of staff: £2,000
- All fees are subject to annual increase. If you are an EU student starting a programme in 2025/26 please visit this page.
October 2026 and February 2027
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Full-time and full-time distance learning: £5,238 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time and part-time distance learning: £2,619 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Full-time and full-time distance learning: £19,950 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time and part-time distance learning: £9,975 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
EU students may be eligible to receive our EU Scholarship.
- Full-time and full-time distance learning: £19,950 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time and part-time distance learning: £9,975 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- External candidates: £5,238
- Members of staff: £2,100
- Tuition fees terms and conditions
Additional fees
Some PhD projects may include additional bench fees for equipment and other consumables. These will be added to your standard tuition fee. Speak to the supervisory team during your interview about any additional fees you may have to pay. Please note, bench fees are not eligible for discounts and are non-refundable.
Funding support
Government Postgraduate Loan
Eligible for MPhil full-time and part-time courses (UK/EU students).
Other funding options
For information on other sources of funding, visit our funding your postgraduate research degree page.
What do my tuition fees cover?
If you are self-funding your PhD, your tuition fees cover the full cost of your postgraduate research programme and access to a wide range of academic, professional and support services, including:
Research training and development
Bespoke training, professional development courses, seminars, workshops and researcher-led events delivered through The Doctoral College.
Research community and support
Access to our research environment, Research and Innovation services, and researcher networking (77% of our research is world-leading or internationally excellent, REF 2021).
Facilities, equipment and resources
Libraries, laboratories, computer rooms, laptops, electronic journals, specialist software (Microsoft Office, SPSS and Adobe Creative Suite), funding guidance and LinkedIn Learning. Explore our facilities.
Student support services
Including academic, financial, careers and wellbeing support, including access to personal tutors. Read more on our guidance support.
Your PhD programme
Registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and viva administration.
Conference and development support
A contribution towards attending conferences or research-related development activities.
Students' Union membership
Giving you the right to vote in elections, join clubs and societies, and get free independent advice.
Graduation
Your graduation ceremony will recognise the significant contribution your research has made to your discipline.
Support and facilities
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Support from our Doctoral College, helping you become part of a thriving, collaborative research community
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Guidance from a dedicated supervisory team throughout your research degree
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Access to the Doctoral Development Programme, offering specialist training, workshops and research events to develop your skills as a researcher
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Use high-tech laboratories with the latest technology, including multimedia studios, a large-scale 3D immersive Virtual Reality room used for Virtual Reality Research
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Access advanced motion capture facilities, and advanced interface devices including haptic feedback and EMG sensors used for Intelligent Systems Research Support
What can a postgraduate research degree do for my career?
A postgraduate research degree develops advanced expertise and transferable skills valued across academia, industry and the public sector.
You’ll graduate with:
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Advanced research and analytical expertise
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Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
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Experience managing complex, independent projects
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Strong communication and presentation skills
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Leadership and research management capability
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Deep subject knowledge in your chosen field
How to apply
You can apply for a research degree in Computing by completing our online application form. For more detailed information about the application process, visit our How to Apply pages.
Not ready to apply just yet?
Get in touch
We're here to help. Feel free to ask us a question.
Come to an Open Evening
Why not come to our next open evening? Open evenings are the perfect place to talk to staff and students, visit our campus and get all the information you need.
- MPhil: 2 years full-time, 4 years part-time
- PhD: 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time
- PhD by Publication: 1 year part-time
We recommend you get in touch with the relevant subject area supervisor using our “Find a Supervisor” tool ahead of applying. You can discuss your research ideas with them and ensure we have supervisory expertise to support you.
Yes. You can apply with your own research proposal, or apply for one of our advertised funded projects.
Where next?
Find out more about Portsmouth's postgraduate opportunities and community.
Postgrad Research Degrees Webinar series
From applications to flexible study — get the insights you need to plan your research degree.
Find a PhD Supervisor
If you've already got your own research idea, start looking for a supervisor whose research interests match yours.
How to apply for postgraduate research
Read our guide on how to complete and submit your postgraduate research application. Take the next step in your academic career today.
