PhD Scholarship: Generative AI and Creativity in Software Development (2026 Entry)

PhD Scholarship: Generative AI and Creativity in Software Development (2026 Entry)

Institution: University of Southampton Faculty: Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences Program: PhD in Computer Science Topic: Generative AI and Creativity in Software Development Application Deadline: 31 January 2026

Scholarship Overview

The University of Southampton, a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship starting in the 2026/2027 academic year.

This specific project is positioned at the cutting edge of modern computer science. It investigates how Generative AI (GenAI) tools can augment developer creativity while critically considering potential downsides. You will be working at the intersection of human-centred AI and software engineering, delivering research with genuine real-world impact.

If you are passionate about how tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot are reshaping the coding landscape, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to the academic understanding of this technological revolution.

Research Project Details

Project Title: Generative AI and Creativity in Software Development

Generative AI tools have revolutionized how software is built, influencing every stage of the lifecycle from requirement gathering to debugging. While much current research examines productivity and code quality, the impact of AI on creativity—a core aspect of software development—remains largely underexplored.

Why this research matters:

• Innovation: Creativity helps developers identify and design novel features.

• Architecture: Creative thinking is essential for architecting complex, scalable systems.

• Problem Solving: Creativity is the key to solving challenging, non-standard bugs.

• Developer Well-being: For many engineers, the creative aspect of coding is what makes the job enjoyable, satisfying, and motivating.

This PhD will explore whether AI acts as a muse that enhances these creative processes or a crutch that potentially stifles human ingenuity.

Funding and Benefits

The University of Southampton offers a robust range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Funding is awarded on a competitive, rolling basis, so early application is strongly advised.

Financial Support Packages Include:

• School Studentships: These highly competitive studentships typically cover UK-level tuition fees and provide a stipend for living costs (tax-free maintenance grant) for top-ranked applicants.

• Presidential Bursaries: These serve to cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked international applicants, making the PhD accessible to global talent.

• Horizon Europe Fee Waivers: Automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students from eligible countries.

Note: Specific funding availability depends on the quality of the application and the timing of submission.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this PhD program, applicants must meet strict academic standards:

Academic Qualification:

• You must hold a UK 2:1 Honours degree (or its international equivalent) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Psychology, or a related discipline.

• A Master’s degree in a relevant field is desirable but not always mandatory if the undergraduate performance is exceptional.

Required Application Documents

Your application package must be comprehensive and professionally presented. Please ensure you have the following ready before applying:

1. Research Proposal: A clear outline of how you intend to approach the topic of GenAI and Creativity.

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV/Resumé): detailing your academic history, technical skills, and any relevant research experience.

3. Academic References: Two (2) references from previous professors or academic supervisors.

4. Transcripts & Certificates: Official copies of your degree transcripts and certificates to date.

5. English Language Qualification: (If applicable) Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL) for non-native speakers.

Supervision and Contact

Primary Supervisor: Dr. Victoria Jackson Department: Computer Science / Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

• For an initial conversation: You are encouraged to email Dr. Victoria Jackson (V.Jackson@soton.ac.uk) to discuss your interest before submitting a formal application.

• General Enquiries: Email the Doctoral College at feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Application Deadline: 31 January 2026

The application process is entirely online. Follow these specific steps to ensure your application reaches the correct review team:

1. Access the Portal: Go to the University of Southampton Student Self-Service portal.

2. Select Programme Type: Choose “Research”, Intake “2026/27”, Faculty of “Engineering and Physical Sciences”.

3. Select Mode: Choose “Full time” (or Part time if applicable).

4. Search for Programme: Search for and select “PhD Computer Science (7089)”.

5. Nominate Supervisor: In Section 2 of the application form, you must add the name of the supervisor: Dr. Victoria Jackson.