About us

A composite graphic of a lung and a wind turbine
UKRI Research England and MARS logos

About MARS

MARS: Mathematics for AI in Real-world Systems is a £22 million strategic investment, funded by £13m from Research England and £9m from Lancaster University. Our researchers are pioneering advanced dynamical mathematical modelling and AI methods to solve complex real-world challenges. We are:

  • Transforming research at the intersection of dynamical systems modelling and machine learning to deepen understanding of the mathematics underpinning AI.
  • Combining AI with applied mathematics to enhance its reliability, trustworthiness, and effectiveness for tackling hard problems in four key application areas.
  • Leading on the development of next-generation mathematics by fostering innovation through academic, industrial, and government partnerships.
  • Addressing the major skills gap in foundational mathematics for real-world modelling by creating new undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Chris Jewell

An introduction to MARS

"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how we live, work and interact with the world. It is pushing the boundaries of scientific inquiry, opening up new possibilities to solve complex problems far beyond our natural abilities.

For mathematicians, AI creates significant opportunities for innovation. We can use AI methods to model complex physical, biological and technological systems; extend the capabilities of AI through new mathematics; and provide a theoretical basis to guarantee that AI-produced results are safe, reliable and trustworthy. This is where MARS comes in.

Our research spans a wide range of applications, from predicting climate events and managing disease outbreaks to accelerating drug discovery and protecting against cyber security threats.

We work closely with non-academic partners to create breakthroughs that transform how AI is applied in practice. By integrating advanced mathematical modelling with the latest AI techniques, we deliver innovative solutions that will have lasting impact across multiple sectors.

Developing the next generation of leaders in mathematics and AI is also central to our mission. Alongside our new undergraduate programmes, we offer PhD opportunities, summer internships, and mentoring for early career researchers. This integrated approach builds a diverse pipeline of talent equipped with the expertise to tackle the complex challenges of tomorrow.

Through pioneering research, collaboration, and training, MARS is redefining the future of real-world mathematics and AI."

 

Professor Chris Jewell, Head of MARS

Aerial Image of Lancaster Castle

MARS @ Lancaster

MARS is based at Lancaster University in the School of Mathematical Sciences, which is one of the highest-ranked maths departments in the UK with a well-deserved reputation for world-class teaching and research.

Lancaster University is also among the best in the UK. It is consistently placed in the top 15 in major UK league tables and ranks highly in international league tables such as the QS World Rankings. It is internationally recognised for its world-leading research and is one of the top 30 universities most targeted by employers.

Situated in the North West of England, Lancaster is at the centre of a thriving innovation hub for sectors including cyber security, manufacturing, green economy and health. These sectors align with the University’s flagship areas of research excellence as well as with the four MARS application areas.

With its historic city, stunning countryside, and beautiful coastline, Lancaster is an exceptional place to live, work, study and collaborate.

Linked icons