Fully-funded PhD Studentship in Applied Nonlinear Dynamics & Mathematical Physics

We are delighted to offer a fully funded PhD studentship and applications are invited from strongly motivated and academically excellent candidates for PhD study in our large and vibrant Applied Mathematics & Mathematical Physics department, within these strategic priority Research areas:

<p><strong>Applied Nonlinear Dynamics: <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4007/dr-cedric-beaume">Dr Cédric Beaume</a></strong>, <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4064/professor-mauro-mobilia"><strong>Professor Mauro Mobilia</strong></a>, <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4067/dr-jitse-niesen"><strong>Dr Jitse Niesen</strong></a>, <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4075/professor-alastair-m-rucklidge"><strong>Professor Alastair Rucklidge</strong></a>, <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4081/professor-rob-sturman"><strong>Professor Rob Sturman</strong></a>, <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4092/dr-jon-ward"><strong>Dr Jon Ward</strong></a> </p> <p>A vibrant research area lying at the heart of problems of fundamental and practical importance. We employ a wealth of mathematical techniques, from statistical to geometrical, from computational to algebraic, and from qualitative to analytical. The main concern is systems that change with time, where the presence of nonlinearities can produce hugely complicated behaviour. We possess cutting-edge expertise in pattern formation (from quasipatterns to spatial localisation), network dynamics, stochastic processes (e.g. the voter model, agent-based models), physics (from statistical mechanics to fluid dynamics), life sciences and numerical methods. Developments in the basic theory and techniques of Nonlinear Dynamics go hand-in-hand with investigations of particular applications, such as fluid dynamics experiments, dynamics on complex networks and mixing in microfluidics.</p> <p><strong>Integrable Systems and Mathematical Physics: <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4011/dr-vincent-caudrelier">Dr Vincent Caudrelier</a></strong>, <strong><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4012/dr-oleg-chalykh">Dr Oleg Chalykh</a></strong>, <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths/staff/4063/professor-alexander-mikhailov"><strong>Professor Alexander Mikhailov</strong></a></p> <p>Symmetry is a central unifying theme in Mathematical and Physics which finds its ultimate form in the area of Integrable Systems. These are systems characterised by a very large number of symmetries, which control their dynamics and make them amenable to exact solution methods. Our group in Leeds has been at the forefront of this area of Mathematical Physics for several decades. We offer a research environment based on expertise in geometric and algebraic aspects of integrable systems with applications to physics: classical and quantum integrable many-body systems (e.g. Calogero and Ruijsenaars models), integrable quantum field theories, (in)finite dimensional Lie algebras (e.g. double affine Hecke algebras, affine and Kac-Moody algebras, automorphic Lie algebras), Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalism of integrable systems,  classical and quantum Yang-Baxter equations, soliton theory, quivers and representation theory. There are strong connections with the Geometry and the Algebra groups and we coordinate the UK-wide LMS national network "Classical and Quantum Integrability”.</p> <p><strong>A list of related PhD projects in this area:</strong></p> <p>Pattern Formation (Applied Nonlinear Dynamics)</p> <p>Instabilities in fluid dynamics</p> <p>Exponential integrators</p> <p>Particle methods for plasma physics</p> <p>Solving differential equations with Fourier extension</p> <p>Quantisation of integrable field theories and Lagrangian multiform</p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Fully-funded PhD Studentship in Applied Nonlinear Dynamics & Mathematical Physics. </strong></em>Please include the name of your preferred supervisor as listed. Please state clearly in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is <em><strong>EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2025/26: Applied Mathematics.</strong></em> </p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p>Applications will be considered after the closing date.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 28 February 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:start; margin-bottom:24px">A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years.  Training and support will also be provided.</p> <p>This opportunity is open to all applicants.  All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not </strong></em>cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk">maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>Please contact individual supervisors listed for information about projects.</p>