Senior Research Associate – MARS

The School of Mathematical Sciences at Lancaster University is seeking to appoint Senior Research Associates to lead their own research project as part of ‘MARS:
Mathematics for AI in Real-world Systems’.

MARS, which is funded by a £13m investment from Research England, conducts research and teaching at the interface of dynamical mathematical modelling and artificial intelligence (AI), with a focus on using applied mathematics and AI methods to address real-world challenges.

You will hold a PhD in mathematics or a related discipline and be able to demonstrate previous research experience in using mathematical machine learning and AI methods, or applied mathematics, to solve challenging problems. Your research will have potential for real-world application in areas including, but not limited to, cyber security, engineering, environment and health.

You will be able to propose an innovative and deliverable three-year research project that contains substantial mathematical content and aligns with MARS research goals. You may also be asked to contribute up to 0.2 FTE to industry projects relevant to your expertise.

It is an exciting time to be part of MARS, which is based in one of the top-ranked maths departments in the UK. You’ll be part of a thriving and collegiate research group with a growing complement of academic staff, researchers and PhD students. MARS is at the forefront of innovating mathematics and AI research and is a nationally distinctive group to join if you want to be part of the next generation of mathematicians tackling real-world problems and shaping the future of mathematics and AI.

These are full-time, three-year positions. Flexible working arrangements will be considered but you will be expected to be present on the Lancaster campus a minimum of two days a week.

Closing date: 4th January 2026

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit:

For further details about MARS, please visit: