CDT in Sensing, Processing and AI for Defence and Security

The CDT in Sensing, Processing, and AI for Defence and Security (SPADS)  supports the UK in addressing defence and security challenges in an era of increasing global instability. We provide world-leading training for student cohorts with the breadth and depth of expertise needed to innovate generation-after-next technology crucial to today and tomorrow’s defence and security challenges.

Building on over 50 years of working in defence research and in partnership with over 20 defence industry partners, including the Ministry of Defence/Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), we work to address the urgent need for highly qualified and experienced personnel within the defence technology sector.

The Programme

A robot with wheels and arms outside the National Robotarium centre at Heriot Watt University

CDT SPADS is a joint programme between the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University, focusing on Artificial Intelligence and Signal Processing in the domain of defence and security. 

With our industrial and government partners we will train the next generation of highly professional defence scientists, including engineers, computer scientists, and mathematicians, capable of leading developments in cutting-edge AI and information and communications technology that are poised to transform not only the world of defence and security, but also broader civilian society.

 

Apply

Person signing an application form with a pen

We are now closed to new applications for 2026 entry. Applications for 2027 will open later in the year. 

Find out about the SPADS recruitment process:

How to Apply

Skills and Expertise

Students and laptops

  • Extensive technical training: co-designed and co-delivered with industry and government
  • Foundational mastery: achieve a solid understanding of fundamental concepts from hardware and sensing and processing to software
  • Deep specialization: gain cutting-edge knowledge in your chosen field
  • Conduct high-impact research that tackles real-world problems 
  • Ethical expertise: understand the ethics governing research and development in a defence and security context
  • E-track: entrepreneurship support and training

Benefits of the CDT

National Robotarium

  • Comprehensive funding, including an enhanced annual stipend of £23,112 tax-free (2025/26) and a generous research training and support grant (RTSG) 
  • Professional network: build invaluable contacts with UK industry and government organisations
  • Peer community: establish strong ties with a network of fellow PhD students
  • Undertake an internship with one of our partners
  • Funding for access to state-of-the-art key facilities at the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University
  • Engage in a rich programme of cohort events, designed to enhance your skills and connections

Two people shaking hands whilst other watch on, within an office environment

Partners

Find out more about our industry and government partners.

blue icons within cogs, graphically representing structure and machination

Programme structure

Learn more about the structure of the SPADS programme.

Automated robots with wheels and sensors delivering packages in a warehouse

PhD research themes

Learn about the SPADS research theme structure.

Any questions?

This article was published on