
MARS PhD programmes
Applications for 2026 entry to MARS PhD programmes are now open!
MARS has full-time, fully-funded, four-year PhD studentships available for UK fees status students. Our offer includes an enhanced tax-free stipend, tuition fees and a research, training and support grant.
Check out our list of projects to see the exciting PhD research opportunities that MARS is offering.
How to apply

Programme overview
MARS is offering four-year PhD programmes in Applied Mathematics and Mathematical AI.
The MARS PhD programmes will suit graduates from a mathematics, statistics, physics, computer science or engineering background who are looking to develop their research skills in applied mathematics, mathematical modelling, AI and computer programming.
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The MARS PhD in Applied Mathematics offers rigorous research training in the development of applied mathematics methodology to solve complex, high-dimensional modelling challenges from across domains including Cyber Security, Engineering, Environmental Science and Health. Each project is centred on advancing applied mathematics and will typically involve one or more of the following:
- the development of mathematical theory,
- the creation of innovative modelling techniques
- the application of mathematical dynamical modelling to tackle substantive, open problems in a domain outside of the mathematical sciences.
This programme provides a unique opportunity to make a substantial contribution to real-world problem-solving through advanced mathematical approaches.
The MARS PhD in Mathematical Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers comprehensive research training focused on building mathematical approaches to address challenges in AI and dynamical systems modelling. This programme is designed to equip students with the mathematical tools and AI expertise needed to deeply understand the foundational principles of AI systems, enabling MARS PhD graduates to solve complex challenges across various industries.
Students can expect to work on data driven projects inspired by real-world applications in fields such as Cyber Security, Engineering, Environmental Science and Health.
This programme offers students the opportunity to contribute innovative solutions at the intersection of mathematics and AI, advancing knowledge in these transformative areas.
How to apply
We are now accepting applications from UK fees status students for October 2026 entry.
You can see a list of available projects here. 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 mars@lancaster.ac.uk by 17:00 (GMT) on 31st January 2026:
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A current copy of your CV (no more than two sides of A4 in PDF format).
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A covering letter (no more than two sides of A4 in PDF format) which should outline:
i) which project you are applying for and confirmation that you have discussed your application with the lead supervisor;
ii) your motivation for undertaking a PhD with MARS.
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Transcripts and certificates of the degree courses you have studied.
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Confirmation that you are a UK fees status student.
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Details of where you saw the opportunity.
Please provide all the requested information as incomplete applications will not be considered.
If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend an online interview.
If you are offered a place, you will be asked to apply via the Lancaster University online admissions portal so that you receive a formal offer of admission.
Before applying, please read our information on entry requirements and funding.

Application timeline
1st October 2025
MARS PhD programmes open to applications.
31st January 2026
Deadline for submissions to MARS PhD programmes at 17:00 (GMT).
w/c 16th February 2026
Shortlisted applicants invited to interview.
w/c 2nd March 2026
Interviews take place for MARS PhD programmes.
w/c 9th March 2026
Applicants informed of interview outcome.

Entry requirements
As a minimum, applicants 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.
To be classed as a UK student you must:
- Be a UK national or UK/EU dual national or non-UK national with settled status / pre-settled status / indefinite leave to remain / indefinite leave to enter / discretionary leave / EU migrant worker in the UK or non-UK national with a claim for asylum or the family member of such a person, and
- Have ordinary residence in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or British Overseas Territory, at the Point of Application, and
- Have three years residency in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, British Overseas Territory or EEA before the relevant date of application unless residency outside of the UK/ EEA has been of a temporary nature only and of a period less than six years.
If you do not meet the above criteria, you are not eligible to apply.
Funding
All MARS PhDs are fully funded. For October 2026 entry, funding for the four-year duration includes an enhanced tax-free stipend (£3k more per year than UKRI standard rates), fees and a research, training and support grant (RTSG).
The stipend is approximately £24,403 for 2026, rising to approximately £26,388 in the final year.
