Advancing Recommender Systems with Language Analytics

This PhD project focuses on advancing language analytics models for recommendation systems, aiming to leverage the rich semantic understanding of language models to provide personalised, context-aware suggestions across various domains. The research will explore how language models, with their ability to process complex language inputs and capture user intent, can be effectively integrated with traditional recommendation algorithms. Key challenges include enhancing scalability for real-time recommendations, improving model interpretability, and ensuring fairness and diversity in recommendations. The project will also investigate novel ways to utilise user interaction data and fine-tuning strategies to tailor language models for dynamic, user-specific preferences, ultimately pushing the boundaries of personalised content delivery.

The Data Science (DS) Discipline at EECS has been largely responsible for UQ's rating of 5 (well above the world standard) in the last 3 consecutive Australia ERA exercises, for the field of Information Systems. It has a strong and internationally focused research culture as well as a growing portfolio of datasets and data-intensive computing infrastructure capable of supporting terabyte-level high-performance storage and processing. DS members have advised ~100 RHD students in the last 5 years and contribute significantly to the national and international research community in various leadership roles. PhD students in DS will be well-supported with full access to the advanced computing facilities and the international collaboration network of the supervisors.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history

A working knowledge of natural language understanding and recommender systems would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 27 October, 2026 27 October, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Dr Ruihong Qiu (r.qiu@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: RECOMMENDER-QIU
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/advancing-recommender-systems-language-analytics

Submit an EOI