Towards Screen Industry 5.0 Policy and Practice: Pedagogical Models to Guide Implementation

Summary

Collaborative Doctoral Partnership with  RETiniZE Creative-Tech Company, Belfast

This project aims to increase knowledge and understanding of technological innovation in the film and animation industry, where digital technologies, including real-time collaborative virtual reality tools, generative AI, and rendering technology are transforming the creative and cultural landscape for digital storytelling.

The focus of the research is to investigate pedagogical approaches needed to equip emerging talent with the necessary skills to navigate and shape the future of this evolving digital landscape.

The research activity will include a use case study of the Animotive VR SaaS tool, developed by the project's collaborative partner and leading tech company RETiniZE.

Animotive, an immersive animation platform, is solving costly technical and production challenges in 3D animation by providing real-time AI responses to a range of issues, including navigating complex scene management, asset creation, lighting and rigging issues. Animotive is part of a burgeoning suite of automated tools for the sector that are reshaping the way stories are  conceived, crafted and conveyed.

The research will investigate how both skilled industry animation professionals and those training for the animation industry can meaningfully participate in this new production paradigm.

The collaboration with RETìníZE provides access and the necessary training to the Animotive VR SaaS product. This will enable the PhD candidate to have the skills and knowledge base to roll out a programme of participatory research engagement activities using the Animotive VR SaaS tool across industry and education settings and to collect the qualitative and quantitative data required to progress the research study.

In order to apply for this opportunity, a clearly defined research proposal and articulate personal statement are required.

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 1500 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.

• Masters at 65%

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.