Deakin-Coventry Cotutelle -Adaptive Human-AI Collaboration for Emergency Response

This is a doctoral cotutelle project between Deakin University (Australia) and Coventry University (UK).

The successful PhD Student will be awarded a scholarship from Coventry University with the supervision team being drawn from Deakin University and Coventry University. The PhD Student will graduate with two testamurs, one from Deakin University and one from Coventry University, each of which recognises that the program was carried out as part of a jointly supervised doctoral program. The program is for a duration of 3.5 years and scheduled to commence in September 2025.

The successful applicant will spend the 1st year at Deakin University and the following year at Deakin Coventry, and then the final 1.5 years at Deakin University. The supervision team will be drawn from the two Universities.

This project focuses on improving Human-AI collaboration in high-stakes emergency response scenarios through the development of adaptive AI systems driven by Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL). By integrating physiological signals (EEG, ECG, and eye-tracking), the system continuously assesses the cognitive and emotional state of human operators. The AI agent uses this information to dynamically adapt its behavior, communication, and task involvement, aiming to enhance coordination, reduce cognitive overload, and improve decision-making effectiveness under pressure.

Applications close 5pm, Monday 30 June 2025

This scholarship is supported by Deakin University, is available over 3 years and includes:

• Stipend of $35,550 per annum tax exempt (2025 rate)
• Relocation allowance of $500-1500 (for single to family) for students moving from interstate
• International students only:  Single Overseas Student Health Cover policy for the duration of the student visa.
• Tuition fees offset for the duration of 4 years.
• Funding to support travel of candidate between Deakin University and Coventry University.

To be eligible you must:

• be either a domestic or international candidate. Domestic includes candidates with Australian Citizenship, Australian Permanent Residency or New Zealand Citizenship.
• meet the PhD entry requirements of both Deakin University and Coventry university, including English language proficiency requirements
• be enrolling full-time and or part-time
• be able to physically locate to both Coventry University (United Kingdom) and Deakin University (Australia)

Please refer to the research degree entry pathways page and Coventry’s research entry criteria page for further information.