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

MARS, which is based in the School of Mathematical Sciences at Lancaster University, is looking for the next generation of mathematicians working at the interface of applied mathematics and AI methods.

Explore our list of available PhD projects here: https://tinyurl.com/2ewwakxn

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 to UK fees status students for October 2026
MARS PhDs are full-time and fully funded. You will receive an enhanced stipend, fees, and training grant. The stipend is approx. £24,403 for 2026, rising to approx. £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 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.

How to apply
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 [email protected] by 17:00 (GMT) on 31st January 2026:

1. A current copy of your CV (no more than two sides of A4 in PDF format).
2. A covering letter (no more than two sides of A4 in PDF format) which should outline:
– Which project you are applying for and confirmation that you have discussed your application with the lead supervisor.
– Your motivation for undertaking a PhD with MARS.
3. Transcripts and certificates of the degree courses you have studied.
4. Confirmation that you are a UK fees status student.
5. Details of where you saw the opportunity.

For more information about the MARS PhD programmes visit: https://tinyurl.com/3evt2z2r