Why SAINTS?
When you join our thriving multidisciplinary community, you’ll be delivering real-world changing projects focused on the safety of AI. Funded by UKRI, the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in Safe Artificial Intelligence Systems (SAINTS CDT) is the very first PhD programme of its kind and brings together people from diverse disciplines including computer science, ethics, law, sociology and health sciences to create the next generation of safe AI experts. This community will pioneer new evidence-based policy and practices for safe AI.
Applications for 2025 entry are now closed.
Application stages
Stage one
Stage one of the application process will require you to complete an online application form detailing your academic qualifications and any relevant work experience you may hold. You’ll also be asked to provide information about your key skills that are relevant to AI and team working. You don’t need to identify a potential supervisor or submit a research proposal at this stage, and it is not necessary to submit your certificates or transcripts.
You will also be asked to submit a formal Expression of Interest to demonstrate how your research interests align with one of the research themes within the CDT. Our academic team will assess your expression of interest and will look for evidence of your potential to undertake research in your chosen area.
All stage one applications received will be anonymised and carefully assessed by our academic team, making sure that all applicants are treated equitably. Successful applicants at stage one will be invited to join stage two of the recruitment process.
Stage two
Applicants reaching stage two will be invited to an in person group selection event at the University of York. During round-table discussions, you’ll be assessed on your approach to collaboration. You’ll also attend an interview with a panel consisting of members of the academic team.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that it's likely you'll have questions about the SAINTS Centre for Doctoral Training and the PhD in Safe Artificial Intelligence.
Hear about what it’s like to apply for the SAINTS CDT programme from a current PhD researcher
Prenika Anand is one of the SAINTS CDT’s current postgraduate researchers. She began her journey back in September 2024 as one of the very first cohorts of the UK’s first multidisciplinary PhD programme focused solely on the safety of artificial intelligence (AI).
Read about Prenika’s experience of the SAINTS CDT application process as she answers some frequently asked questions.
