PhD in Ambient Assisted Living Technologies (PhD)

The deadline to apply for the Sep 2026 intake is Aug 31, 2026; tuition is 24,433 USD per year.

Graduates of the Ambient Assisted Living Technologies PhD at the University of Portsmouth go on to work in tech startups, healthcare services, and academic research, advancing independent living technologies for vulnerable people. The PhD is based in the School of Computing and supervised by Dr. Rinat Khusainov and Dr. Richard Curry. Students will address the need for safe living environments, applying AI and Computer Vision techniques to real-life data, and experimenting with assistive technologies in realistic deployment environments.

This PhD project is part of ongoing efforts to develop sophisticated Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) systems that monitor activities of daily living to ensure the well-being and safety of individuals living alone. The project leverages a bespoke research facility consisting of a fully instrumented residential house, providing a real-world environment for experimentation and data collection. The School of Computing also offers excellent computing facilities, including an IBM PowerAI Vision platform for image and video analysis.

University of Portsmouth, established in 1869 and located in the historic coastal city of Portsmouth, offers a vibrant student experience with around 28,000 students, including approximately 5,000 international learners. The university combines strong teaching and research with practical industry links and a waterfront location that enriches campus life. Its long history of technical and professional education makes it a familiar choice for students seeking applied learning in a city with excellent transport links.

Portsmouth provides a range of programs organized across ten broad subject areas, encompassing engineering, business, health professions, creative arts and sciences. Students benefit from industry placements, modern laboratories and career-focused modules that enhance employability. The university also supports research-led teaching and partnerships with local employers, giving international students opportunities to gain real-world experience alongside academic study.

Comprehensive support services help international students with visas, accommodation, language preparation and wellbeing, while student societies and campus activities foster social integration. With practical training options, placement support and access to regional industries and cultural sites, Portsmouth is well suited to students who value both academic quality and hands-on experience. Prospective applicants should investigate program specifics, placement opportunities and scholarship options before applying.