Project Overview
About the Position
The University of Surrey is offering a doctorate on AI-assisted camera-lens design.
The project combines computer vision, graphics and computational imaging to connect optical design choices with image quality.
Official Project Title
Smart optical design: AI tools for the next generation of cinematic camera lenses
Research Focus and Methods
Develop differentiable, data-driven models for forward imaging simulation and inverse lens design. Investigate ways to propose lens architectures that meet imaging or perceptual objectives.
Research Training and Development
Research connects AI methods with industrial optical-design problems.
Funding and Duration
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | PhD studentship; selection is competitive |
| Programme | Surrey studentship |
| Duration | 42 months (3.5 years) |
| Stipend | £21,805 per year at the advertised 2026/27 UKRI rate; later rates follow the award terms. |
| Tuition and research support | Home fees or an international-fee waiver, stipend, research training and travel funds. |
| Award conditions | Selection is competitive; an advertised project does not guarantee a studentship. |
| Stipend amount status | £21,805 is the published 2026/27 reference rate. Subsequent academic-year rates and the amount in an individual funding offer should be checked separately. |
Eligibility and English Language
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant eligibility | Worldwide applicants may apply, subject to programme and university requirements. |
| Academic preparation | First-class or high 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in computer science, electronic engineering, applied mathematics, physics or a related subject; a relevant master’s is preferred. |
| Project interests and skills | Strong mathematics and Python or C/C++; relevant vision, graphics or machine-learning experience. Rendering or optics experience is desirable. |
| English language | Meet the host university’s English-language admission rules. An approved alternative or exemption may apply; IELTS is not universally mandatory. |
About University of Surrey
University of Surrey is a public research university in Guildford, England. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across engineering, science, business, health, humanities and social sciences. Its teaching and research connect academic foundations with professional practice, supported by partnerships and work addressing questions in technology, health and contemporary society.
Official website: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/
Application Dates and Location
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | 17 January 2027 |
| Start date | 1 April 2027 |
| Research location | Guildford, United Kingdom |
Contact
- Email: m.volino@surrey.ac.uk
- Email: j.guillemaut@surrey.ac.uk
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be sent to the contacts above or raised through the channel given on the official announcement page.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 17 January 2027 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
How to Apply
- Apply through the Vision, Speech and Signal Processing PhD link in the advert.
- Instead of a research proposal, upload a document stating the project title and relevant supervisor.
- Complete the programme’s remaining supporting-document requirements.
Application Checklist
- Document stating the project title and relevant supervisor, uploaded in place of a research proposal
- Other supporting documents required by the linked PhD programme; consult its current checklist
Supervisors and Contact
| Supervisor | Role | |
|---|---|---|
| Dr Marco Volino | Primary Supervisor | m.volino@surrey.ac.uk |
| Dr Jean-Yves Guillemaut | Co-supervisor | j.guillemaut@surrey.ac.uk |
Application Preparation
For application preparation, see How to Email a PhD Supervisor: 7 Templates and Practical Tips, How to Read a PhD Job Advert: Funding, Eligibility and Application Steps and Is a PhD Funded for International Students? How to Check the Advert.
Official Link
- Official project description
- Dr Marco Volino: official profile
- Dr Jean-Yves Guillemaut: official profile
Application guides
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for PhD in AI for Cinematic Camera Lens Design at University of Surrey, UK?
The application deadline is 17 January 2027. Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source gives neither a closing time nor a time zone.
Is PhD in AI for Cinematic Camera Lens Design at University of Surrey, UK fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. £21,805/year.
Who is eligible to apply for PhD in AI for Cinematic Camera Lens Design at University of Surrey, UK?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for United Kingdom. Applications are assessed by University of Surrey.
How do I apply for PhD in AI for Cinematic Camera Lens Design at University of Surrey, UK?
Applications for PhD in AI for Cinematic Camera Lens Design at University of Surrey, UK are submitted directly to University of Surrey through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for PhD in AI for Cinematic Camera Lens Design at University of Surrey, UK?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for United Kingdom are published by the provider.
What study level does PhD in AI for Cinematic Camera Lens Design at University of Surrey, UK offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.
Hosted by
University of Surrey
University of Surrey is a public research university in Guildford, England. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across engineering, science, business, health, humanities and social sciences. Its teaching and research connect academic foundations with professional practice, supported by partnerships and work addressing questions in technology, health and contemporary society.
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