Key information
- Funding
- Fully funded
- School
- Mathematical and Computer Sciences
- Location
- Dubai
- Award
- PhD
- Delivery type
- Full-time
- Duration
- 48 months
This PhD aims to develop an advanced SfM pipeline that harnesses artificial intelligence to enhance feature extraction, matching, and the speed of large-scale 3D reconstruction. Building on existing tools like COLMAP, you will create deep learning architectures tailored to challenging real-world conditions such as complex lighting, vast environments, and dynamic scenes.
The primary applications include construction monitoring and asset management, where high-precision 3D models aid in tracking project progress, evaluating structural integrity, and facility management. The resulting technology will support rapid, accurate spatial mapping and benefit sectors such as robotics, AR/VR, cultural heritage preservation, geospatial analysis, and digital twin development.
Location:
Heriot-Watt Dubai Campus. Please note that relocation to Dubai for the full duration of the project is required.
Why join us?
Heriot-Watt University Dubai is establishing a new Centre for Doctoral Training in Robotics and AI, aligned with the UAE’s ambitious National AI Strategy 2031. This program offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a national effort to lead in AI innovation, with strong links to industry and government partners.
Building on the success of the UK Edinburgh Centre for Robotics—graduating over 150 PhDs—our Dubai initiative focuses on real-world, industry-relevant research. As a student, you will develop critical skills, create valuable intellectual property, and be part of shaping AI-driven solutions for sectors like construction, infrastructure, and digital twins, all while contributing to the UAE’s vision for a sustainable, innovation-led future.
Centre for Doctoral Training in AI and Robotics Innovation
Find out moreEntry requirements
Funding information
| Full Time | |
|---|---|
| Local and International | AED 103,480 per year |
- All tuition fees inclusive of VAT.
Why Heriot-Watt
As the first British university to set up a campus in Dubai in 2005, we have established ourselves as a pioneer in the higher education market in the UAE. The three consecutive five-star ratings by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) is a testament to our reputation for world-class teaching.
The futuristic Dubai campus is designed to offer interactive and collaborative learning experiences with innovative classroom styles fostering group work and engagement like Collaborative lecture theatres, Digitally Classrooms and Seminar rooms. The campus also has dedicated cutting-edge laboratories and workshops that span various engineering disciplines along with Psychology, IT, Photography, Design and Architecture.
Our practical, leading-edge research combined with strong links to business and industry, have made our graduates highly employable and sought after by the best organisations worldwide, with over 90% in graduate-level jobs or further study within six months of graduation. On top of that, we have beautiful campuses, across the globe, so you'll get a truly international education through our Go Global programme.