Virtual Production for Public Good: A Framework for Human-Centred Applications in Heritage, Accessibility, and Sustainability.

Summary

This PhD project frames Virtual Production (VP), creative, and immersive technologies not just as filmmaking tools, but as powerful problem-solving design tools for the public good.

This research encourages co-design, multi-disciplinary collaboration,  and prototyping innovative applications to tackle challenges in one or more of the following key areas:

* Cultural Heritage: Using digital twins and real-time rendering to create accessible and low-impact solutions for preservation and public engagement.

* Education: Designing new, interactive learning frameworks that use VP to make complex subjects tangible and encourage behavioural change around sustainability.

* Sustainability & Biodiversity: Researching VP applications to visualise and simulate complex ecosystems, allowing for the communication of environmental data and the study of biodiversity in an immersive, intuitive way.

This is a unique opportunity to work at the cutting-edge of technology for public good. As a PhD researcher, you will contribute directly to a new body of knowledge, developing specialist skills to help grow a globally competitive, low-carbon, and socially responsible economy.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 (approximately) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home candidates, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.