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From Generation to Detection: LLM-Driven Approaches to Understanding Disinformation Processes

This PhD project explores how Natural Language Processing and large language models (LLMs) can help us understand and tackle disinformation across digital platforms. It looks at how LLMs both fuel and detect misleading content, following the full lifecycle from creation to spread and impact.

You'll develop computational frameworks to simulate disinformation campaigns, spot linguistic and semantic patterns, and strengthen automated detection systems. There’s a strong focus on clarity, robustness and the responsible use of LLM‑based tools.

By combining advances in NLP with insights from communication and social sciences, the project aims to deepen our understanding of how disinformation evolves and moves through online spaces. Ultimately, it seeks to design transparent, scalable ways to detect and counter harmful narratives, helping build more resilient information ecosystems.

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. 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

Kevin Lu

Dr. Lu's research primarily focuses on artificial intelligence. Dr. Lu has an extensive publication record, with over 30 research articles in leading journals and conferences including IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems, IEEE Transactions on Information Theory, ACM Transactions Computing Surveys and ACM SIGKDD. His research has been supported by organizations such as SAMS, GCRF, Innovate UK KTP, EPSRC, and the EU. Under Dr. Lu's supervision, ten PhD students have successfully completed their doctoral studies. His research interests include: - AI Enabling NLP Applications - LLM/MLLM - Mathematical Modelling for Optimisation - Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) Applications in Marketing, Business and Management