The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping physical activity behaviours and body image

We are seeking applicants for a self-funded PhD examining how artificial intelligence (AI) within digital fitness environments shapes body image and physical activity (PA) behaviours.

AI is increasingly embedded within social media and fitness platforms. On platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, generative AI tools are used to enhance or create idealised body imagery and content. Additionally, AI-powered fitness apps and chatbots (e.g. Chat GPT) can deliver exercise guidance, provide feedback, and motivational prompts. Despite rapid developments in generative AI, little is known about how this shapes individuals' self-perceptions, body image, and physical activity behaviours.

This project may adopt qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method approaches and will be underpinned by theory in social psychology and/or exercise psychology.

Project focus

The specific focus of the PhD will be determined by the applicant, but may:

  • Explore the impact of AI-generated or AI-enhanced fitness imagery and content on social media.
  • Investigate how users interpret and relate to AI as a source of physical activity and exercise guidance/motivation.
  • Consider how AI within digital fitness environments shapes body image and physical activity motivation.

Applicant profile

  • Applicants should have a background in psychology, sport and exercise sciences, health psychology, public health, or a related field.
  • Strong methodological skills (qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods)

How to apply

If you are interested in applying for the above PhD topic please follow the steps below:

  1. Contact the supervisor by email or phone to discuss your interest and find out if you would be suitable. Supervisor details can be found on this topic page. The supervisor will guide you in developing the topic-specific research proposal, which will form part of your application.
  2. Click on the 'Apply here' button on this page and you will be taken to the relevant PhD course page, where you can apply using an online application.
  3. Complete the online application indicating your selected supervisor and include the research proposal for the topic you have selected.

Good luck!

This is a self-funded topic

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.

Meet the Supervisor(s)

Charlotte Kerner - Dr Charlotte Kerner is a Senior Lecturer in Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences whose research examines the social and psychological factors influencing physical activity and body image. Her early work focused on motivation for physical activity participation, particularly among young people, and explored how pedagogical environments can support engagement in physical activity. This research also examined the relationships between physical activity environments and body image outcomes. Dr Kerner’s more recent research explores the role of digital technologies, including health and fitness social media (e.g. Instagram and TikTok) and wearable technologies, in influencing body image, exercise motivation, and health behaviours across different populations. Her current work focuses particularly on the social, behavioural, and psychological implications of GLP-1 medications. Recent publications examine social media representations of GLP-1 medications on TikTok, while current projects explore how GLP-1 medications may influence body image and physical activity behaviours. Her emerging research interests also include visible differences and appearance-related experiences, including exploring conceptual links with body image and body functionality theory, and the place of physical activity in the lives of those living with visible differences