Applying Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence to Identify and Measure the Social Impact of Youth Services on Children and Young People in Northern Ireland

Summary

This PhD project, a collaboration between Ulster University and the Education Authority (EA), aims to transform youth service delivery in Northern Ireland by harnessing advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI). The research will assess youth service needs, capacity, and provisioning while generating actionable insights to guide responsive, targeted programming for children and young people.

The project will integrate diverse datasets provided by the EA, including service locations, attendance, demographics, deprivation, and programme details. By harmonising and analysing these datasets, the research will identify service gaps, evolving programme needs, and barriers faced by users. A focus on addressing bias in algorithmic profiling will ensure fair, equitable data-driven decision-making that supports inclusive programme targeting for all demographics.

Underutilised qualitative feedback from surveys and focus groups will be analysed using natural language processing (NLP) to uncover themes, sentiments, and the lived experiences of young people. This will provide valuable insights into the social impact of youth work and inform programme improvements. AI-driven text analysis will also streamline funding application processes, optimise cost-effectiveness assessments, and explore automation tools, such as apps or chatbots, to enhance survey engagement and real-time data collection.

The successful applicant will collaborate closely with the EA, spending a minimum of three months on-site to access resources, consult with experts, and gain hands-on experience in data analysis and youth service operations. This partnership ensures the research aligns with practical needs, delivering innovative solutions for youth service enhancement.

This interdisciplinary project supports Ulster University’s commitment to addressing inequality through technological innovation and offers the opportunity to create scalable frameworks for equitable, needs-based youth service delivery across Northern Ireland and beyond.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 70%
• For VCRS Awards, Masters at 75%
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Experience of presentation of research findings

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• DfE CDP Award in collaboration with the Education Authority

This CDP studentship offers an annual non-taxable maintenance grant of approx. £19,500 plus an additional stipend top-up of £5500 per annum, covers three years of tuition fees (worth over £14,000), and includes support for research training and project running costs.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National, or

• Have settled status, or

• Have pre-settled status, or

• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

• be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.