A fully funded PhD opportunity is available at University College London (UCL) in the Department of Mathematics, starting October 2026. The project focuses on system dynamics modelling of services for children with complex health needs, as part of the NIHR/EPSRC-funded SPROCKET Hub (Systems and Process Redesign and Optimisation at Childhood Key Events and Transitions). SPROCKET is a multidisciplinary initiative that brings together experts in operational research, systems thinking, health services research, clinical paediatrics, innovation implementation, intervention design for people with disabilities, community facilitators, parents, special educational needs experts, and co-production specialists. The overarching aim is to transform service delivery for children and young people with complex health needs.

The successful candidate will develop and apply system dynamics simulation models to understand and improve the transitions experienced by children with complex health needs, specifically focusing on (1) moving from hospital to home and (2) starting school or transitioning from primary to secondary education. The project requires a strong interest in system dynamics (as developed by Jay Forrester) and the ability to collaborate with stakeholders across healthcare, social care, and education, as well as with multidisciplinary academic teams.

The student will be primarily based in the Clinical Operational Research Unit (CORU) at UCL, a team dedicated to applying operational research, data science, and mathematical modelling to healthcare challenges. Supervision will be provided by Professors Sonya Crowe, Christina Pagel, and Nici Zimmermann, who are leading experts in system dynamics and operational research. The UCL Mathematics Department is renowned for its research excellence, with over 97% of its research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the latest REF.

The PhD programme offers outstanding research supervision, a vibrant learning community, and access to frequent seminars on diverse research topics. UCL’s involvement in the London School of Geometry and Number Theory (LSGNT) and the London Taught Course Centre (LTCC) ensures students are well integrated into the wider mathematical community. Graduates from the programme have gone on to successful careers in academia, industry, education, and technology.

Funding: The studentship covers UK home tuition fees and provides a stipend for up to four years, along with a research training allowance and support for purchasing a laptop. International students are welcome to apply, but scholarships covering international fees are limited and highly competitive. The position may include teaching assistant duties, with training and professional development opportunities available through UCL’s Arena Centre.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold at least an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Operational Research, System Dynamics, or a relevant subject, or an equivalent qualification from another country. Most successful candidates have an MSc or MSci degree (or equivalent) at merit or distinction level. A demonstrated interest in system dynamics and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders is essential.

Application Process: Applications are accepted online via the UCL Postgraduate Applications system. Select Research Degree: Mathematics (degree code RRDMATSING01) and identify Professors Sonya Crowe, Christina Pagel, and Nici Zimmermann as your potential supervisors, noting your interest in the SPROCKET project. No detailed research proposal is required, but you should include your motivation and relevant skills and experience. The application deadline is January 15, 2026. For informal enquiries, contact [email protected].

For further details, visit the CORU website and the UCL Mathematics PhD programme page.