EPSRC and NATS Funded PhD Studentship

Applications are open for a second cohort of PhD studentships in Machine Learning and AI for Air Traffic Control at the University of Exeter, in partnership with NATS. This is a research-focused doctoral opportunity in areas such as human-machine teaming, AI agents, decision support for controllers, and weak-signal analysis for air traffic control room situational awareness.

The project sits within the University of Exeter’s Centre for Doctoral Training in Air Traffic Management and combines academic supervision with industry-linked training. Students will spend the first year receiving training in machine learning and AI methods at Exeter and in air traffic control fundamentals at NATS, with funded visits to NATS during the programme.

Funding: 4 studentships are available. Eligible home students receive full home tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend of at least £21,805 for 4 years full-time (or pro rata for part-time study). International applicants are welcome, but the award only covers part of the international tuition fee and stipend, so they must cover the remaining tuition and additional costs such as visa and healthcare surcharge.

Eligibility: Applicants should have, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or Cognitive Science. Interest in machine learning, deep learning, AI, uncertainty quantification, or probabilistic methods is encouraged. Non-native English speakers must meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency.

Deadline: midnight BST on 6 May 2026. Interviews are expected in the week commencing 18 May 2026. Successful applicants must be able to start in September 2026.

How to apply: Apply through the University of Exeter portal, upload the required documents, and quote reference 5855. The application requires a CV, letter of application, transcripts, two referees’ names, and English language evidence if applicable.