Project details This PhD project presents a cutting-edge opportunity to explore how the emergence and adoption of generative AI are reshaping our information ecosystems. By examining how content creators, model developers, users and advertisers approach and adapt to emerging generative AI technologies, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Meta’s Llama, the project aims to understand the developmental trajectories of future information ecosystems and assess their social, organisational and regulatory implications. The research methodologies are envisaged to combine both qualitative and quantitative methods to investigate emerging ecosystems, but we are open to a range of approaches. The findings will offer theoretical and practical contributions, informing the research literature, innovation management, and strategies for ensuring inclusivity, fair content access, and balanced power dynamics in the digital information landscape. This project is ideal for curious minds passionate about understanding and shaping the future of information ecosystems in our increasingly digital society. We welcome applications and research proposals from different backgrounds, such as management, media and communication studies, sociology or computer science. The focus is on information ecosystems as socio-technical systems, and we expect sufficient technological interest and knowledge to engage with AI technologies and ecosystems. Supervisors Primary supervisor: Dr Antti Lyyra Secondary supervisor: Dr Martin Sykora Entry requirements At least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent ) with a UK master's degree (with an average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent. Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Loughborough Business School requires a minimum IELTS band 7.0 or above with not less than 7.0 in each component. Further details are available on the international website. Funding The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus University tuition fees. How to apply Put together your research proposal (between 2,500 to 3,000 words including references). Share your research proposal with the identified supervisor(s) and confirm they are willing to be named in support of your application. You are also encouraged to ask for feedback to develop your research proposal. All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select ‘Business School'. Please upload with your application a research proposal, copies of your transcripts/certificates, English language certificate and contact details of two academic references, one of which must be from your most recent degree. Please quote the project reference number: LB25-AL-MS-Funded. To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents. The selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them take a decision on your application. Contact details Call: 44 (0)1509 228072 Email: a.k.lyyralboro.ac.uk £19,237 per annum