PhD studentships in Applied Mathematics or Mathematical AI

Overview

PhD studentships in Applied Mathematics or Mathematical AI

MARS:
Mathematics for AI in Real-world Systems is offering fully-funded, four-year PhD studentships in Applied Mathematics or Mathematical AI. MARS, based in the School of Mathematical Sciences at Lancaster University, seeks the next generation of mathematicians working at the interface of applied mathematics and AI methods.

• Cutting-edge research:
  Focusing on mathematical innovations that tackle long-standing hard problems, your research in this rapidly advancing field will have significant potential for impact.
• Real-world experience:
  Through collaboration with MARS public and private sector partners you will become an innovation leader, applying your research to solve complex organisational challenges.
• Expert supervision:
  Regular, expert supervision from a dedicated team of internationally-leading academics and funding to attend training courses.
• Postgraduate community: A thriving postgraduate community within the MARS PhD cohort, with access to a social and professional network of like-minded peers.
• Sustainable career pathways:
  Graduates will leave with skills for impactful, research-led careers in academia, industry, or government.

Applications open to UK fees status students for October 2026. MARS PhDs are full-time and fully funded. You will receive an enhanced stipend, fees, and a training grant. The stipend is approximately £24,403 for 2026, rising to approximately £26,388 in the final year.

Entry requirements:
As a minimum, you must have, or expect to obtain, a first class honours undergraduate degree or a 2:1 undergraduate degree with a merit at master’s in a subject with substantial mathematical content (e.g. mathematics, statistics, physics, computer science or engineering).

These studentships are available to UK fees status students only.

Please contact the lead supervisor of the project you are interested in before you apply. Once you have spoken with your prospective supervisor, send the following information to  by 31st January 2026 (GMT):