PhD and Postgraduate Research in Mathematical Sciences

About the opportunity

The School of Mathematical Sciences at Lancaster University offers the opportunity to study for a research degree in any of the areas of interest of their staff members, including Applied Mathematics, Mathematics, Mathematical AI, Statistics, and Social Statistics. Recognized for strong research performance, the School provides a comprehensive student research environment supporting the transition from taught programs to independent researchers. Candidates benefit from regular contact with supervisors, peer support mechanisms, and research activities designed to prepare them for academic or industrial careers.

Funding and benefits

• Research Council Studentships provide full payment of tuition fees plus a stipend for living expenses via the UKRI.
• Department Studentships cover full payment of tuition fees (at UK/EU level) plus a living expenses stipend.
• Applied Mathematics and Mathematical AI (MARS) studentships provide an enhanced tax-free stipend of approximately £24,403 to £26,388 per year, complete fees, and a research, training and support grant (RTSG).
• Probabilistic AI Hub positions offer a tax-free studentship stipend of £20,780 per year, paid tuition fees for up to 3.5 years, a training budget, and international conference travel funds.
• Industry and external source studentships normally cover full tuition fee payment (at UK/EU level) and a living expenses stipend.

Who can apply?

• Applicants are generally expected to have a minimum of an upper-second class honours degree, or its equivalent, in Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields.
• For Mathematics, a first-class degree in MSci/MMath is preferred; for Statistics, an MSc in Statistics/Data Science is preferred.
• Specific routes such as MARS require a first-class or 2:1 honours undergraduate degree with a merit at the master's level in a subject with substantial mathematical content and UK fee status.
• Some studentships have specific nationality or fee-status restrictions (such as UK-only or UK/EU/international allocations).

Required documents

• Postgraduate application form via the online portal
• Two references, including at least one academic referee commenting on academic quality, performance, and independent research potential
• Transcripts of previous higher education degrees or current studies, with certified English translations if necessary
• Detailed CV (up to 3 pages) covering academic achievements, past projects, and employment history
• Personal statement (up to 2 pages) detailing research interests, relevant experiences, and preferred supervisor
• Proof of English language competency (e.g., IELTS overall score of at least 6.5 with no element below 6.0) if English is not the first language
• Covering letter and degree certificates (required specifically for certain programs like MARS)

When to apply

• Academic year starts in October; entry in January or April is also possible.
• General studentships application deadline is 31st January for equal consideration.
• MARS and specific applied mathematics/AI deadlines are 31st January 2026 at 17:00 (GMT).
• Applications are normally considered between October and May for October entry.

How to apply

• Identify and contact prospective supervisors to discuss research projects prior to applying.
• Complete an online application via the University Postgraduate Admissions Portal.
• Attend a half-hour online interview with a small panel of academic members if shortlisted under consideration for an offer.
• Wait for review by the Postgraduate Research Committee for final offer and funding decisions.

Additional information

• The department does not require applicants to submit a research proposal unless applying via specific targeted schemes like the ESRC/NWSSDTP competition.
• Current Lancaster students or recent graduates who receive an offer need to provide only one reference.