Mathematics: Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Investigating the Impact of Nonlocal Interactions (RS761)

Funding provider: EPSRC

Subject areas:  Mathematics, Mathematical Modelling, Bifurcation Analysis, Biological Applications

Project start date: 1 October 2025 (Enrolment open from mid-September)

Supervisors:
Primary Supervisor: Dr Valeria Giunta
Secondary Supervisor: Prof Elaine Crooks

Aligned programme of study: PhD in Mathematics

Mode of study: Full-time

Project description:
Flocks of birds, schools of fish, swarms of insects and coordinated cell migration are among the most fascinating examples of collective behaviour observed in nature. These behaviours are underpinned by mathematical principles - many of which remain mysterious. They often arise from long-range interactions between individuals that can be effectively described by nonlocal mathematical models. This class of models has proven successful in capturing interactions in a wide range of biological systems, from cell-cell communication to animal group behaviour. However, our analytical understanding of these models remains limited.

This fully funded PhD Scholarship will focus on bifurcation structures in nonlocal advection-diffusion models, with the aim of advancing our understanding of these systems. The project will use a combination of analytical techniques and numerical methods to explore how such models can provide new insights into collective phenomena. The research is expected to have broad implications, offering advances in mathematical theory as well as applications in fields such as spatial ecology, developmental biology and cancer research.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant interdisciplinary research group in Mathematical Biology at Swansea University. This unique environment offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to a growing area of research bridging mathematics and biology, with the potential to strengthen interdisciplinary collaborations and inspire future experimental studies.

Candidates must hold a UK bachelor’s degree with a minimum of Upper Second Class honours or overseas bachelor’s degree deemed equivalent to UK Bachelor (by UK ECCTIS) and achieved a grade equivalent to UK Upper Second Class honours – see country specific qualifications

OR a master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University).

IELTS 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each individual component) or a Swansea recognised equivalent. Details on the Swansea University English Language entry policy can be found here.

The candidate should be a highly motivated individual who is keen to develop their skills in both mathematical theory and its application to real biological problems.

The candidate is expected to have a strong academic background in mathematics, physics or a related field, with a keen interest in the application of mathematical models to biological systems. A solid understanding of mathematical concepts such as differential equations, bifurcation theory and dynamical systems is desirable. Experience with numerical methods and computational tools (e.g. MATLAB, Python or similar) is also an advantage.

Informal inquiries before the deadline for formal applications are welcome by email to valeria.giunta@swansea.ac.uk

ATAS

Please note that the programme requires some applicants to hold ATAS clearance, further details on ATAS scheme eligibility are available on the UK Government website. 

ATAS clearance IS NOT required to be held as part of the scholarship application process, successful award winners (as appropriate) are provided with details as to how to apply for ATAS clearance in tandem with scholarship course offer.

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £19,237 for 2024/25). 

Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 per year will also be available. 

Scholarship open to UK and international fee eligible applicants

To apply, please complete your application online with the following information:

1. Course choice– please select: Mathematics / PhD / Full-time / 3 Years / October
2. Start year– please select 2025
3. Funding (page 8 on the application process)
4. ‘Are you funding your studies yourself?’ – please select No
5. ‘Name of Individual or organisation providing funds for study’ – please enter ‘RS761 - Nonlocal Interactions’

In the event you have already applied for the above programme previously, the application system may issue a warning notice and prevent application, in this event, please email pgrscholarships@swansea.ac.uk where staff will be happy to assist you in submitting your application.

*It is the responsibility of the applicant to list the above information accurately when applying, please note that applications received without the above information listed will not be considered for the scholarship award.

One application is required per individual Swansea University led research scholarship award; applications cannot be considered listing multiple Swansea University led research scholarship awards.

NOTE: Applicants for PhD/EngD/ProfD/EdD - to support our commitment to providing an environment free of discrimination and celebrating diversity at Swansea University you are required to complete an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Monitoring Form in addition to your programme application form.  

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Monitoring Form (online form) 

Please note that completion of the EDI Monitoring Form is mandatory; your application may not progress if this information is not submitted.

As part of your online application, you MUST upload the following documents (please do not send these via email): 

• CV 

• Degree certificates and transcripts (if you are currently studying for a degree, screenshots of your grades to date are sufficient) 

• A cover letter including a ‘Supplementary Personal Statement’ to explain why the position particularly matches your skills and experience and how you choose to develop the project. 

• One reference (academic or previous employer) on headed paper or using the Swansea University reference form. Please note that we are not able to accept references received citing private email accounts, e.g. Hotmail. Referees should cite their employment email address for verification of reference. 

• Evidence of meeting English Language requirement (if applicable). 

• Copy of UK resident visa (if applicable) 

• Confirmation of EDI form submission 

Informal enquiries are welcome; please contact Valeria Giunta valeria.giunta@swansea.ac.uk

*External Partner Application Data Sharing – Please note that as part of the scholarship application selection process, application data sharing may occur with external partners outside of the University, when joint/co- funding of a scholarship