Professor of Mathematical AI

Lancaster University is a globally engaged institution set within a stunning 578-acre parkland campus. Home to a vibrant community of 24,000 students, we are a TEF Gold institution, consistently ranked in the UK’s top 10 by the Complete University Guide 2025.

Mathematics for AI in Real-world Systems (MARS) is an ambitious new initiative in our School of Mathematical Sciences – one of the highest-ranked maths departments in UK with an international reputation for top-quality teaching and world-class research.

Funded by a £13m investment from Research England, MARS will transform research at the interface of dynamical systems modelling and machine learning to deepen understanding of the mathematics underpinning AI. With 10 FTE new academic posts supported by dedicated research staff and PhD students, MARS will enhance Lancaster’s excellence in impactful and industrially-engaged research and support its flagship strategies in cyber security, engineering, environment, and health.

MARS will become a unique national capability, pushing the boundaries of mathematical modelling and AI methods to tackle key global challenges. New undergraduate and postgraduate programmes will equip the next generation with the critical skills needed to innovate the mathematics underpinning AI and apply them to real-world problems. MARS will forge strong partnerships with public and private sector partners, positioning Lancaster as a regional, national, and global leader in next-generation mathematics.

We are seeking an exceptional Professor of Mathematical AI to play a central leadership role in shaping the future of MARS. As a member of the senior leadership team, you will drive the formation and strategic direction of this new centre for research and teaching within the School of Mathematical Sciences.

You will:

• Lead a world-class research group at the interface of dynamical mathematical modelling and AI methods
• Conduct world-class research in the mathematics of AI
• Shape and lead cutting-edge undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, addressing the critical skills gap in mathematical AI for real-word modelling
• Foster interdisciplinary collaborations across Lancaster’s research ecosystem and with external public and private sector partners
• Play a key role in cementing Lancaster’s reputation as a national leader in mathematical AI research.

About you

We are looking for an exceptional academic leader with:

• A proven track record of outstanding research in mathematical AI, including publications in internationally-leading journals and substantial grant capture
• A passion for teaching, mentoring, and developing future talent
• Significant experience of building cross-disciplinary collaborations and forming strategic partnerships with public and private sector organisations
• A commitment to building a positive, inclusive and collaborative research culture
• A vision for shaping a major new research investment and enhancing Lancaster’s research profile

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of mathematical AI research in an institution that values innovation, impact, and collaboration. Join us and help shape the future of mathematical AI at Lancaster University.

The closing date for applications is noon on Monday 7 April 2025.

We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.