Overview
As industries rapidly transform due to technological advancements, the need for employees to constantly update their skills is critical. Organisations must continuously identify and address skill gaps to remain competitive. Traditional talent management approaches, often reliant on static assessments and manual processes are increasingly inadequate for this fast-changing landscape. In the past, AI-driven solutions have significantly contributed to talent management by automating recruitment processes, such as resume screening and candidate matching, enabling organisations to identify top talent efficiently (Dawson and Agbozo 2024). Additionally, AI has been used to enhance employee development through personalised learning recommendations, performance analytics, and predictive insights for succession planning.
The proposed PhD research aims to develop a framework that leverages AI-driven predictive analytics to assess employee skill capabilities, automatically identify skill gaps, and provide personalised, data-driven upskilling recommendations. The personalised upskilling recommendations generated by the framework will be tailored to each employee’s development path and aligned with organisational objectives, ensuring that both individual growth and business goals are achieved. The research will enable organisations to make informed decisions about workforce development strategies. It will also contribute to the growing body of knowledge on AI’s role in shaping the future of work, with practical implications for organisations seeking to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
The successful candidate will develop machine learning and algorithmic design skills. The candidate will gain valuable multidisciplinary skills in the area of machine learning and data analytics methods and their application to talent management.
Nottingham Business School is triple crown accredited with EQUIS, AACSB and AMBA – the highest international benchmarks for business education. It has also been ranked by the Financial Times for its Executive Education programmes in 2023 and 2024. NBS is one of only 47 global business schools recognised as a PRME Champion, and held up as an exemplar by the United Nations of Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME).
Its purpose is to provide research and education that combines academic excellence with positive impact on people, business and society. As a world leader in experiential learning and personalisation, joining NBS as a researcher is an opportunity to achieve your potential.
Applications for October 2025 intake closes on 1st July 2025 and applications for Jan 2026 intake closes on 1st October 2025.
References:
Dawson, J.Y. and Agbozo, E., 2024. AI in talent management in the digital era–an overview. Journal of Science and Technology Policy Management.
Staff profiles
Entry qualifications
Candidates must have a UK Master’s degree (or international equivalent) in Computer Science, Management Science, Business Analytics, Mathematics or a related discipline. A strong interest in machine learning and data analytics are highly desirable, alongside excellent communication and programming skills. Prior experience in data analysis or the workforce management industry is also preferred.
UK: Successful applicants for the PhD in Nottingham Business School normally hold a first or upper second-class honours degree from a UK university or an equivalent qualification. Candidates with a lower second-class degree may apply if they hold a Master’s degree at Merit level or higher.
International: Successful applicants for the PhD in Nottingham Business School normally hold a first or upper second-class honours degree from a UK university or an equivalent qualification.
International students will also need to meet the English language requirements - IELTS 6.5 (with minimum sub-scores of 6.0). Applicants who have taken a higher degree at a UK university are normally exempt from the English language requirements. Applicants who do not meet the English language proficiency requirement will normally be asked to complete an English Language course
How to apply
Applications for October 2025 intake closes on 1st July 2025 and applications for Jan 2026 intake closes on 1st October 2025. Please visit our how to apply page for a step-by-step guide and make an application.
Fees and funding
This is a self-funded PhD project for UK and International applicants.
Guidance and support
For more information about the NBS PhD Programme, including entry requirements and application process, please visit: https://www.ntu.ac.uk/course/nottingham-business-school/res/this-year/research-degrees-in-business
Nottingham Business School is triple crown accredited with EQUIS, AACSB and AMBA – the highest international benchmarks for business education. It has also been ranked by the Financial Times for its Executive Education programmes in 2023 and 2024. NBS is one of only 47 global business schools recognised as a PRME Champion, and held up as an exemplar by the United Nations of Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME).
Its purpose is to provide research and education that combines academic excellence with positive impact on people, business and society. As a world leader in experiential learning and personalisation, joining NBS as a researcher is an opportunity to achieve your potential.