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.

What we’re looking for
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.

You will have a publications record appropriate to your career stage, which includes evidence of the ability to produce high-quality academic writing, and the potential to publish research with a substantial mathematical component in leading peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

Willingness to participate in national and international meetings, conferences and workshops to present results to a wider audience and build research networks is essential. You must also be prepared to build collaborations with MARS project partners and other non-academic stakeholders by attending and contributing to meetings and events.

You will have effective interpersonal skills and be able to work both independently and within a team. You will also be willing to contribute to developing a positive, inclusive and collaborative research culture within MARS.

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: 24th August 2025

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit: https://hr-jobs.lancs.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=0555-25

For further information about MARS, please visit lancaster.ac.uk/mars

Lancaster University promotes equality of opportunity and diversity within the workplace. For these positions, we welcome applications from all diversity groups but particularly from women who are currently underrepresented in the mathematical sciences.