• The University has partnered with SuperTechWM to provide research support and industry engagement
• The partnership will allow 10 doctoral researchers to be available to selected regional businesses
• The initiative is part of Aston’s PhD+ scheme.

Financial technology innovators are being offered the opportunity for an Aston University PhD researcher to collaborate with their workforce.

The University has partnered with SuperTechWM to provide research support and industry engagement to advance work that combines fintech, AI and digital innovation.

The partnership will allow 10 doctoral researchers to be available to selected regional businesses as part of the PhD+ scheme focusing on significant innovation challenges relevant to a specific company. A previous project focused on developing AI technology for fraud detection.

Launched in 2024 the programme is designed to equip researchers with the skills that are crucial for success in the digital age and to meet the demands of the industries dependent on technology. It is the first in the UK to combine an industrial placement, continuing professional development accreditation and training in advancements in artificial intelligence, leadership and business as standard. It draws on Aston’s expertise in AI and digital technology research, and projects will be focused on innovation challenges directly relating to the specific business.

SuperTech hosts the largest professional services cluster outside of London and supports technology and innovation-led growth for the professional and financial services sectors in Birmingham and the West Midlands. Aston University and SuperTechWM have been working together for over a year to strengthen and accelerate growth in the business, professional and financial services (BPFS) sector.

Professor Mike Caine, interim Vice-Chancellor, Aston University:

“Aston is proud of its relationship with SuperTechWM and our collaboration brings together the University’s research expertise and talent with SuperTech’s network of businesses, startups, and scale-ups. This new innovative programme pairs individual researchers with an industry partner, which will elevate our students’ learning and prepare them for both work and life within a changing world.”

Hilary Smyth-Allen, CEO of SuperTechWM said:

"Our partnership with Aston University represents a powerful step forward for the West Midlands’ innovation ecosystem. Through the PhD+ programme, businesses across our region will gain access to research talent capable of unlocking new possibilities in fintech, AI and digital transformation. At SuperTech WM, we are committed to helping companies stay at the forefront of technological change, and this collaboration ensures that the ideas shaping the future of professional and financial services are being developed right here in the West Midlands.”

Existing projects focus on advanced projects in cyber security, fraud detection and the automation of decision making in complex regulated environments. Aston University contributes research, skills and thought leadership drawing on area of expertise such as its Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute and its Centre of Excellence for Enterprise AI.

The PhD+ programme is open to both home and international students and covers all University tuition fees regardless of nationality plus a stipend for three and a half years at UK Research Council rates. The first cohort began their studies in September 2025.