EPSRC and NATS Funded PhD Studentship 2026

The EPSRC and NATS Funded PhD Studentship referred to here is a doctoral research opportunity at the University of Exeter in Machine Learning and AI for Air Traffic Control. It is delivered in partnership with NATS and sits within Exeter’s Centre for Doctoral Training in Air Traffic Management, combining university research with industry-focused training.

This programme supports PhD study and is aimed at students interested in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, uncertainty quantification, probabilistic methods, human-machine teaming, AI agents, and decision support for air traffic control. Students receive academic supervision at Exeter and specialist training linked to real-world air traffic management challenges.

Funding is fully funded for eligible home students, covering full home tuition fees plus a tax-free annual stipend. The opportunity also includes training at both the University of Exeter and NATS, as well as funded visits to NATS during the programme. International applicants may apply, but the award typically covers only part of the international tuition fee together with the stipend, so successful international candidates should expect to pay the remaining tuition and other additional costs.

Applicants are generally expected to hold, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline such as computer science, mathematics, engineering, or cognitive science. If English is not the applicant’s first language, the university’s English language requirements will apply.

As this is a university-specific PhD opportunity, candidates should normally apply through the University of Exeter using the instructions in the relevant studentship advertisement. Applicants should prepare academic transcripts and degree information, and may also need a CV, references, and a research-focused application tailored to the advertised project area.