Central Bank announces funded PhD Programme in AI & Data Science

Deputy Governor Sharon Donnery, with Professor James Gleeson, University of Limerick; Professor Noel O’Connor, CEO, Insight; Dr. Chrys Nwga, Insight and Trevor Fitzpatrick and Robert Kelly from the Central Bank of Ireland. 

Central Bank of Ireland and the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics at University of Limerick have announced a landmark collaboration to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence (AI) and data science for public good in Ireland.

The collaboration will see the Central Bank funding a dedicated PhD programme in AI and data science, hosted by the Insight Research Ireland Centre and University of Limerick but available to all eligible researchers across the nation.

This research partnership, set to run for over six years, aligns with Ireland’s National AI Strategy by advancing research that builds public trust, improves policy outcomes and cultivates the next generation of AI talent.

The partnership will initially provide funding for six PhD studentships, focusing on applying AI and data science to achieve outcomes like safer financial systems and better outcomes for consumers of financial services.

These research projects will address challenging issues including responsible AI, financial crime, AI risks and regulation, cyber and climate risk.

This collaboration is designed to produce evidence-based research with practical, real-world applications. Central Bank of Ireland and Insight researchers will work together to deliver better analytical insights and, ultimately, better policy outcomes.

This collaboration expands Ireland’s capacity for AI and analytics by creating PhD-level opportunities for skilled researchers.

By building a pipeline of AI talent equipped to tackle emerging challenges in Ireland, this programme will contribute to the national AI ecosystem and help to shape the direction of future AI research.

The programme will open for applications in early 2025. Check this page for further updates.