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- Tasks: Explore how AI enhances facial recognition and impacts human decision-making.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a leader in psychological and computer science research.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD, hands-on experience with industry leaders, and extensive training.
- Why this job: Join an exciting interdisciplinary project that shapes the future of AI in policing.
- Qualifications: 1st class or 2:1 degree in relevant fields; coding skills are a plus.
- Other info: Gain unique insights into AI ethics and forensic technology while working with experts.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Background
CCTV footage is a predominant and crucial source of evidence in policing, with an estimated 21 million cameras operating in the UK. Yet more than 80% of real-world footage is too poor in quality to support reliable person identification. This severely limits investigative success and leaves offenders unidentified.
Generative AI–based super-resolution (SR) technologies—such as VisionMetric's iREVEAL—promise transformative gains by enhancing low-quality facial images. However, there is little scientific evidence on whether these tools improve human accuracy, how they affect machine recognition, and whether they introduce demographic biases.
This interdisciplinary PhD (Psychology w. Computer Science) will investigate how generative AI–based super-resolution (SR) technologies influence human and machine-based facial identification. The PhD will combine behavioural experiments, machine learning, and explainable-AI methods to answer questions:
- How do SR-enhanced images affect machine-based facial recognition, and where do human and machine decisions diverge?
- Do SR methods perform equitably across demographic groups?
- Can SR models be improved using human perceptual insights?
This project provides extensive interdisciplinary training from subject experts and industry, including in behavioural experimental design and statistical modelling; computer vision and AI techniques; explainable AI and human–machine comparison methods; and responsible innovation.
The student will work closely with VisionMetric, which is a leading SME supplying facial software to police forces in over 30 countries. Two placements at VisionMetric will provide hands-on experience with AI development pipelines and product development.
This is an exceptional opportunity to build a skillset spanning psychology, AI, fairness, and forensic technology, positioning the candidate for careers in academia, applied behavioural science, AI research, technology, or policy. The project addresses both the societal risks and potential benefits of AI in high-stakes environments.
Candidate
We are looking for a highly talented and dedicated student with a 1st class or 2:1 undergraduate degree in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Neuroscience, Data Science, or a related field. An MSc degree in a relevant area is desirable though not necessary. Experience in coding (e.g., Python/R/Matlab) and experience in behavioural experimentation, statistics, or machine learning is desirable but full training will be provided. Applicants with an interest in human perception, AI ethics, or forensic science are especially encouraged.
Interviews for this studentship are expected to take place on 16th March 2026.
Fully Funded Studentship: Human-Aligned Super-Resolution for Facial Identification: Behavioural[...] in London employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fully Funded Studentship: Human-Aligned Super-Resolution for Facial Identification: Behavioural[...] in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current students or faculty at the University of Birmingham. They can give you insider info about the programme and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to AI, psychology, and your coding skills. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the field! During interviews, share your thoughts on the ethical implications of AI in policing and how you see your research contributing to this area.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Fully Funded Studentship: Human-Aligned Super-Resolution for Facial Identification: Behavioural[...] in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your background in psychology, cognitive science, or computer science aligns with the project. We want to see your passion for the intersection of these fields!
Show Off Your Skills: If you've got experience in coding or behavioural experimentation, flaunt it! Even if you’re still learning, let us know about your journey and any relevant projects you've worked on.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your ideas flow well and are easy to understand. Avoid jargon unless it's necessary!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you promptly.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest in generative AI and super-resolution technologies. Understand how they relate to facial identification and be ready to discuss their implications in policing. This shows your genuine interest and knowledge about the field.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about your coding experience, especially in Python, R, or Matlab. If you've done any behavioural experiments or statistical analysis, be ready to share specific examples. This will help demonstrate your practical skills and readiness for the research.
✨Connect the Dots
Think about how your background in psychology or cognitive science can contribute to the project. Be prepared to discuss how human perception ties into AI ethics and forensic technology. This interdisciplinary approach is key to impressing the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the project, the collaboration with VisionMetric, or the training you'll receive. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this studentship aligns with your career goals.
