Adaptive AI Coaching for Long-Term Digital Health Engagement

About the Project

PhD studentships available in a multi-institutional, interdisciplinary national centre for data science and AI funded by Research Ireland.

Applications are invited for a PhD studentship in Dundalk Institute of Technology, as part of a multi-institutional interdisciplinary national centre for data science and AI funded by Research Ireland. These studentships are available through a cohort-based PhD training programme across a suite of research themes: foundational methods, translational methods, data & processing, people-centred AI, democratic governance, society & culture and health.

Project Details

Adaptive AI Coaching for Long-Term Digital Health Engagement

Digital health technologies have significant potential to support long-term self-management, health monitoring, and behaviour change. However, sustaining meaningful engagement with these technologies over time remains a major challenge, particularly in the context of chronic conditions and ageing populations. This PhD project will explore how adaptive and human-centred AI approaches can be used to support long-term engagement with digital health systems.

The successful PhD candidate will be based within the NetwellCASALA research centre at Dundalk Institute of Technology.

Supervisor: Dr. Julie Doyle

Research theme: Human-Centred AI Design

Essential Criteria

• A first-class or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Digital Health, Psychology.
• Experience with at least one relevant technical area such as software development, prototyping, data analysis, AI/ML tools, web/mobile development, or digital system design.
• Strong research skills, including experience with qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research approaches.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary research team.

Desirable Criteria

• A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Experience conducting user-centred design, co-design, participatory design, or usability evaluation activities.
• Knowledge of AI, machine learning, explainable AI (XAI), adaptive systems, or conversational AI.

Application process

We are currently recruiting for the September / October 2026 intake. Applications will open on 29th May 2026 and close on 15th June 2026.