AI Storytelling in Screen Industries

Summary

There is both growing anxiety and optimism around the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the creation of new content for film, television, and other screen media. Whilst there is increasing debate and literature on this subject, there remains limited scholarly and practical output—both in theory, practice, and policy.

This PhD project invites candidates to explore how AI is shaping storytelling techniques and creative practices within the screen industries in Northern Ireland, the wider UK, and beyond.

Applicants may adopt theoretical, practice-based, or mixed methodologies to investigate creativity, ethics, and the formal and technical potentials of AI-driven creative output.

Research Themes may include (but are not limited to):
* New storytelling techniques emerging from AI in screen media.
* Ethical and cultural challenges of AI-generated content.
* The impact of AI on creative labour, authorship, and industry practices.
* Technical innovations and their integration into film, television, and digital media production.
* Policy implications of AI for the creative industries.

Candidate Profile:

We welcome applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including (but not limited to):

* Film, Television, and Media Studies
* Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science
* Creative Arts and Practice-based Research
* Cultural Policy and Ethics

Applicants should demonstrate strong research skills, critical thinking, and an interest in the intersections of creativity, technology, and culture. Experience in screen production, media industries, or digital technologies would be advantageous but not essential.

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.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

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.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.

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.