MARS: Mathematics for AI in Real-world Systems is offering fully-funded, four-year PhD studentships in Applied Mathematics and Mathematical AI

If you want to be part of the next generation of mathematicians working at the interface of applied mathematics and AI methods then apply to the MARS PhD programmes starting in October 2025.

Our four-year PhD programmes offer a distinctive training experience:

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

You will have regular, expert supervision from a dedicated team of internationally-leading academics and benefit from funding to attend training courses.

Postgraduate community

You will join a thriving postgraduate community and, as part of the MARS PhD cohort, you will have access to a social and professional network of like-minded peers.

Sustainable career pathways

MARS graduates will leave our programmes with the skills required for impactful, research-led careers in academia, industry, or government.

Applications open for October 2025

MARS PhDs are full-time and fully funded. You will receive an enhanced stipend, fees, and training grant. The stipend is approximately £22,814 for 2025, rising to approximately £24,651 in the final year. We have a limited number of fully-funded places available for overseas students.

You will have demonstrated excellence in your studies and will be expecting to hold, or already hold, a first class honours degree or 2:1 with a master’s with substantial mathematical content e.g. mathematics, statistics, physics, computer science or engineering. Further eligibility conditions apply – see our website for details.

Early applications are strongly encouraged as we will be interviewing candidates on an ongoing basis.

How to apply

Send the following information to mars@lancaster.ac.uk:

• A current copy of your CV (no more than two sides of A4 in Word or PDF format).
• A covering letter (no more than two sides of A4 in Word or PDF format) outlining which MARS PhD programme you are applying for, which of the potential projects you are interested in, and your motivation for undertaking a PhD with MARS.
• An up-to-date copy of the degree courses you have studied including marks awarded.
• Your current fees status (UK or overseas including EU).
• Details of where you saw the opportunity.

For further details about closing dates, studentships and eligibility criteria, see the website.