Welcome to the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Understandable agri-food Systems Transformed by Artificial INtelligence (SUSTAIN).
SUSTAIN is a collaboration between the Universities of Lincoln, Aberdeen, Queen’s Belfast and Strathclyde, and focuses on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to sustainable agri-food.
Where the next generation of AI science takes root.
The SUSTAIN Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) empowers the next generation of AI scientists to invent, develop and deploy technologies, co-created with growers and agri-food practitioners.
SUSTAIN facilitates meaningful partnerships between academics and industry, investing in stakeholder-driven innovation.
Be part of the future of food production
One funded PhD place remaining for October 2026 entry.
Join the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training (SUSTAIN) and undertake a fully-funded PhD exploring how Artificial Intelligence can transform sustainable agriculture and food production.
Application Deadline: 12 noon on Friday, 31 July 2026
Apply now
SUSTAIN CDT Call for PhD Project Proposals
Cohort 4 (starting October 2027)
(For academics and industry partners)
We invite academics and industry partners to submit proposals for PhD projects within the SUSTAIN AI Centre for Doctoral Training, starting in October 2027.
This call supports the co-development of interdisciplinary research projects applying AI to real-world challenges in sustainable agri-food systems. Proposals should demonstrate strong collaboration, a clear research focus, and alignment with SUSTAIN’s aim to deliver impactful, high-quality research.
How to apply:
Download the Call Guidance and Submission Form, and submit your completed form along with a CV and Letter of Support to:
Deadline: 12:00 (midday), Monday, 7th September 2026
Next steps:
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Results will be announced on Friday, 11th September 2026
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Student recruitment will begin on Friday. 18th September 2026
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Students will start their PhD on the 1st October 2027.
Uniting industry and research for a sustainable future
Please download and return completed forms to
SUSTAIN@lincoln.ac.uk
If you have interest but you don’t have a fully formed proposal yet, please complete the Expression of Interest (EoI) form here.
