This project aims to bridge the gap between technological advancements and their integration into societal and environmental systems by shifting from a product-centric to a service-oriented approach. Focusing on adaptive intelligence, which blends human creativity and machine intelligence, the project will develop Multi-Intelligence Agents (MIAs) to facilitate the seamless integration of social factors with intelligent technologies. These agents will enable the creation of dynamic, evolving services across various sectors, including healthcare, urban intelligence, and education, fostering continuous knowledge co-evolution and addressing complex challenges in a super-intelligent society.
This project is situated within the rapidly evolving field of Cyber-Physical-Social Systems (CPSS), which is of increasing relevance today due to its ability to bridge the physical, digital, and social domains. CPSS are integral to the modern world, shaping the development of intelligent systems that respond dynamically to human and environmental interactions across various sectors such as healthcare, education, and urban planning.
The primary aim of this project is to develop Multi-Intelligence Agents (MIAs) that combine human creativity with machine intelligence. These agents will facilitate the creation of dynamic and adaptive services that can evolve over time, responding to changing needs in sectors like healthcare, urban intelligence, and education, ultimately enhancing service delivery and quality.
Cranfield University provides an ideal setting for this research, offering cutting-edge resources and expertise in engineering, digital technologies, and systems thinking. The university’s strong reputation for applied research and its focus on technological innovation ensure that this project will be well-supported, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a network of professionals in the field.
The expected impact of this research will be the development of valuable insights into how advanced technologies can be integrated with human expertise, leading to enhanced system performance and sustainability. The project aims to create a foundation for systems that can evolve autonomously while benefiting from continuous human oversight and input, driving long-term improvements in performance across a variety of industries.
One of the unique selling points of this project is the opportunity for collaboration with world-leading experts within the International Systems Realization Partnership, offering access to valuable networking, travel opportunities, and external training experiences. This collaborative environment will be crucial in advancing the project’s goals and in fostering knowledge exchange with global thought leaders in the field.
Students involved in this project will gain a wealth of expertise in adaptive intelligence, multi-agent systems, and the design of AI models. They will also acquire transferable skills in interdisciplinary problem-solving and innovation, which will significantly enhance their employability in dynamic sectors such as technology, healthcare, education, and urban development. This experience will prepare them to address complex challenges in evolving systems across a range of industries.
At a glance
- Application deadline 06 Aug 2025
- Award type(s)PhD
- Start date29 Sep 2025
- Duration of award3 years
- EligibilityUK, EU, Rest of world
- Reference numberSATM544
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a strong foundation in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and multi-agent systems, along with experience in programming, data analysis, and model development. Knowledge of interdisciplinary fields is beneficial, as is famili arity with adaptive intelligence, human-in-the-loop machine learning, and multi-modal learning techniques. Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork skills are essential for developing innovative solutions in dynamic, evolving systems.
Funding
This is a self-funded project, any interested applicants or any potential sponsor (local government or industry) will need to provide their own financial support in relation to tuition fees, research support fees and living expenses.
This studentship is open to both UK and International applications.
Cranfield Doctoral Network
Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.
How to apply
For further information please contact:
Name: Dr Jelena Milisavljevic Syed
Email: jelenams@cranfield.ac.uk
If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.
