University of Birmingham | School of Mathematics
The School of Mathematics at the University of Birmingham is inviting applications for a PhD studentship in mathematical biology and population dynamics.
The project will develop mathematical and computational approaches to understand how biological populations change over time under ecological interactions, environmental variability, and other biological processes.
Key Information
- Degree: PhD
- Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Study mode: Full-time
- Eligibility: UK, EU, and international students
- Application deadline: 24 October 2026
- Posted: 24 July 2026
Research Focus
The PhD project will focus on developing mathematical models of population dynamics in biological systems.
The research will combine:
- Dynamical systems theory
- Mathematical modelling
- Data-driven approaches
Key questions will include how populations respond to:
- Ecological interactions
- Environmental variability
- Changes in biological processes
- Complex interactions between multiple drivers
The project aims to generate new theoretical insights and develop quantitative tools for understanding and predicting complex population behaviour.
This opportunity may be particularly suitable for candidates interested in mathematical biology, applied mathematics, dynamical systems, ecological modelling, population dynamics, and quantitative biology.
Funding
UK and EU Candidates
Funding may be available through a College or EPSRC scholarship, awarded competitively alongside other PhD applications.
Successful scholarship applicants may receive:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Training support
- A stipend at standard rates
- Funding for approximately 3 to 3.5 years
Early applications are strongly recommended. The annual scholarship application deadline is stated as 31 January at midday UK time, although later applications may also be considered.
Strong candidates are encouraged to make an informal enquiry regarding the project and available funding.
International Candidates
Strong self-funded applicants from outside the UK and EU will be considered.
Exceptionally strong international candidates may also compete for a tuition fee waiver for up to three years.
Funding Opportunities for Chinese Candidates
Chinese applicants may also explore the following funding schemes:
- China Scholarship Council (CSC) Scholarship
https://www.csc.edu.cn/chuguo - China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarships Programme at the University of Birmingham
https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/funding/postgraduate/china-scholarship-council-university-of-birmingham-phd-scholarships.aspx - PhD Placements and Supervisor Mobility Grants, China-UK
https://www.britishcouncil.cn/en/programmes/education/higher/opportunities/phd
Main project application deadline: 24 October 2026
https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DSJ577/phd-studentship-mathematical-biology-and-population-dynamics