DPhil in Computational Discovery

The DPhil in Computational Discovery is a multidisciplinary programme spanning projects in Advanced Molecular Simulations, Machine Learning and Quantum Computing to develop new tools and methodologies for life sciences discovery.

This innovative course has been developed in close partnership between Oxford University and IBM Research. Each research project has been co-developed by Oxford academics working with IBM scientists. Students will have a named IBM supervisor/s and many opportunities for collaboration with IBM throughout the studentship.

Applicants who are offered places will be provided with a funding package that will include fees at the Home rate, and a stipend at the standard Research Council rate (currently £15,609 pa) for the duration of fee liability (three years). NB Overseas applicants are liable for fees at a different rate, therefore an additional source of funding will be required to cover the full cost of fees.

Applications must be received by 12 midday (UK time) on Friday 7 January 2022.

Projects will be available across three related themes. Topics will include both fundamental and applied in each field. Particular focus will be given to interdisciplinary research at the interface of the three fields.

Theme One: Advanced Molecular Simulations

1. Improved physical models of bio-materials
2. Protein-membrane interactions
3. Using molecular dynamic simulations to advance drug discovery or medicinal chemistry
4. Combining computational and structural biology approaches to molecular discovery

Please contact the Theme Lead Phil Biggin if you have any questions about these projects.

Theme Two: Artifical Intelligence and Machine Learning

1. Fundamental methodologies for ML
2. Neuroscience inspired AI
3. Applications of ML in molecular discovery

Please contact the Theme Lead Charlotte Deane if you have any questions about these projects.

Theme Three: Quantum Computing

1. Algorithm development
2. Applications in chemistry and molecular simulations
3. Interface of Quantum and Classical computing

Please contact the Theme Lead Phil Biggin if you have any questions about these projects.

Further details about the programme and information on how to apply can be found here.

View other programmes