Research is led by scientific curiosity and motivated by social, economic and industrial needs. We have strong links with local and national industry – not least because most practical problems demand an interdisciplinary approach.Areas of studyAs a research student, you're associated with one or more research groups in the Department of Informatics:AI Research GroupFoundations of Software SystemsCreative Technology.We welcome research proposals in all of the areas our faculty specialise in. Our interdisciplinary research involves key roles in the Centre for Computation Neuroscience and Robotics (CCNR), the Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science and the Sussex Humanities Lab.You can choose to study for a PhD or an MPhil. PhD and MPhil degrees differ in duration and in the extent of your research work.For a PhD, your research work makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in your chosen field.For an MPhil, your work is an independent piece of research but in less depth than for a PhD. You’ll graduate with the degree title Master of Philosophy. You might be able to change to a PhD while you study for an MPhil.