AI-driven heritage preservation and management

We are offering a self-funded PhD position with the Brunel Business School, focusing on exploring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in preserving cultural heritage.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

If you have any questions about the project or would like to arrange an informal discussion, please reach out to Dr Asieh Hosseini Tabaghdehi at asieh.hosseinitabaghdehi@brunel.ac.uk

This research project seeks to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the preservation and management of cultural heritage, focusing on how AI can be used to engage communities and ensure the sustainability of heritage sites, artefacts, and practices. The project investigates AI tools and digital technologies for restoring, documenting, and conserving cultural heritage, with a particular emphasis on community involvement in the process. By integrating AI-driven solutions into heritage management, the project aims to create a more inclusive, interactive, and sustainable approach to cultural preservation.

Key focus areas

  • AI for Heritage Preservation: Develop AI solutions for the digital restoration and conservation of cultural heritage, including artefacts, architecture, and intangible heritage.
  • Community Engagement: Investigate how AI technologies can be used to engage local communities in the preservation process, ensuring their voices and cultural knowledge are integral to heritage management.
  • Interactive Heritage Platforms: Design interactive digital platforms powered by AI that allow communities to experience and contribute to the preservation and interpretation of their cultural heritage.
  • Ethical AI in Heritage Management: Explore the ethical implications of AI use in heritage, focusing on issues such as cultural sensitivity, accessibility, and the representation of diverse histories and traditions.

Expected outcomes

  • Development of AI-based tools for the digital preservation and management of heritage assets
  • Creation of community-driven platforms that allow for collaborative cultural preservation efforts
  • Guidelines for integrating AI technologies into heritage management practices, with an emphasis on ethics and community involvement
  • Recommendations for using AI to promote cultural education, raise awareness, and enhance engagement with heritage sites

Impact

This project aims to empower local communities by giving them a central role in the preservation of their cultural heritage. By using AI as a tool for greater inclusion and interaction, the project will foster a deeper connection between communities and their cultural history while ensuring the sustainability of heritage preservation efforts for future generations.

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%.