Swansea University has been selected to host the Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme, an initiative aimed at expanding access to artificial intelligence (AI) research. This fully funded, eight-week program will run from June 8 to July 31, 2026, and is part of a larger national effort supported by Google DeepMind, The Hg Foundation, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), and the Royal Academy of Engineering.
The program, delivered by the University’s Computer Science Department, is tailored for undergraduate students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with hands-on experience in cutting-edge AI research. Participants will work at Swansea’s £32.5 million Computational Foundry, a facility renowned for its dedication to computational and mathematical sciences.
Selected students will engage in various research projects focusing on areas such as machine learning, robotics, natural language processing, and deep learning. They will also receive weekly training in data science from a Turing Fellow, participate in a datathon challenge alongside Welsh industry partners, and present their findings at a final conference. Importantly, they will benefit from mentoring for Ph.D. programs and career development meetings, along with opportunities to publish their research on the dedicated Research Ready website.
In addition to the research experience, the program aims to equip participants with vital transferable skills, including academic writing, data analysis, critical thinking, and presentation skills—attributes that are increasingly valuable in both academia and industry. Notably, no prior research experience is necessary, as the program is designed for applicants driven by curiosity and enthusiasm, rather than traditional academic metrics.
To ensure accessibility, participants will receive significant support: a stipend of £441 per week, free on-campus accommodation, and coverage of travel costs. This financial assistance allows students to concentrate fully on their research endeavors without concerns about economic barriers.
Dr. Megan Venn-Wycherley, Programme Co-Lead, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Artificial Intelligence is transforming society, but access to research careers in AI remains uneven. The Research Ready Programme is about opening doors—giving talented students who may not have seen themselves as ‘researchers’ the opportunity to work alongside leading academics, build confidence, and see what a future in AI could look like.”
To be eligible for the program, applicants must be UK residents, currently in their penultimate year (or have completed) an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related technical field, and meet at least one criterion for widening participation. This may include eligibility for free school meals, residence in the lowest two deciles of the IMD/POLAR classification, experience of local authority care, or receipt of full state maintenance support.
An online information webinar is scheduled for February 25, 2026, and the application deadline is March 15, 2026. Interested individuals can find more details and apply through the Swansea University website.
Founded in 1920, Swansea University has established itself as a research-led institution, attracting over 23,000 students globally to its picturesque campuses along Swansea Bay. The university has recently achieved its highest-ever ranking in the QS World University Rankings 2025, reaching 298th globally, marking its entry into the top 300 for the first time. Additionally, it was recognized as Welsh University of the Year 2025 by The Times and Sunday Times, and ranked 29th in the Guardian University Guide 2025.
The 2021 Research Excellence Framework reported that 86% of Swansea’s research and 91% of its research environment are deemed world-leading or internationally excellent, with 86% of its research impact recognized as outstanding. Swansea University operates as a registered charity, No. 1138342.
For further inquiries, contact Ffion White at Swansea University Press Office by calling 01792 602706 or via email at [email protected].
Citation: Swansea University to deliver prestigious Google DeepMind-supported AI research programme (2026, February 20) retrieved 22 February 2026 from https://sciencex.com/wire-news/533033910/swansea-university-to-deliver-prestigious-google-deepmind-suppor.html
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