About the Project
The BASP Laboratory at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, led by Professor Yves Wiaux, invites applications for a fully funded PhD to develop the theoretical foundations of next-generation imaging algorithms at the intersection of optimisation theory, deep learning and agentic AI.
The PhD project
Computational imaging reconstructs high-quality images from incomplete, noisy or indirect measurements, underpinning major imaging modalities in applications spanning medicine, astronomy, defence and Earth observation.
Supported by major projects funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Royal Society, the BASP Laboratory conducts research spanning mathematical foundations, algorithms and applications, with a particular focus on interferometric imaging in radio astronomy, as well as MRI and ultrasound in medicine.
This PhD project will investigate the theoretical and methodological foundations of next-generation computational imaging algorithms, integrating optimisation, deep learning and agentic AI to deliver accurate, scalable and physically interpretable reconstructions in high-dimensional settings.
Deep learning will provide powerful data-driven image representations and reconstruction capabilities, while agentic AI will enable specialised AI agents to work collaboratively, adapting reconstruction strategies to the data and imaging task at hand.
A central challenge is to harness the power and adaptability of modern AI while preserving the convergence guarantees of the reconstruction algorithm and the physical interpretability of its solutions, essential for reliable scientific imaging.
The algorithms will be validated for radio-interferometric imaging and/or MRI, connecting fundamental methodological advances with high-impact scientific challenges.
An outstanding collaborative research environment
Professor Wiaux is a Professor in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences and head of the BASP Laboratory at Heriot-Watt University, an Honorary Fellow of the University of Edinburgh's School of Informatics, and an Academic Guest at the Signal Processing Laboratories of EPFL in Lausanne.
The project benefits from an international network of leading collaborators, including Professor Jean-Christophe Pesquet at the Digital Vision Center of Paris-Saclay University, Professor Carola-Bibiane Schönlieb at the Cambridge Image Analysis Lab of the University of Cambridge, Professor Gabriele Steidl at the Berlin Mathematics Research Center of the Technical University of Berlin, Dr S. Breen at the International Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) Headquarters in Manchester, and Professor Ruud van Heeswijk at the Translational Magnetic Resonance Research Lab of the University of Lausanne.
The successful candidate will join the BASP Laboratory under Professor Wiaux's supervision, with opportunities for co-supervision by collaborators and engagement with international research in mathematical imaging, signal processing, AI and scientific applications.
Candidate profile
We seek outstanding, highly motivated candidates with a first-class Master's degree, or equivalent, in electrical engineering, applied mathematics, physics, computer science or a related discipline.
Candidates should have a strong interest in mathematical and algorithmic research. Experience in optimisation, signal processing, inverse problems, machine learning or applied mathematics would be particularly relevant.
Funding and how to apply
The PhD offers a fully funded 3.5-year scholarship, covering full tuition fees and a living stipend of approximately £22,000 per year, open to UK and international applicants. The start date is flexible within 2027.
To apply, email Professor Yves Wiaux at y.wiaux@hw.ac.uk with a single PDF containing a motivation letter outlining your research interests and suitability, your full academic transcript, your CV, and the names of two academic or professional referees.
Applications will be reviewed from November 2026 until the position is filled. Apply early to maximise your opportunity to be considered.