School of Mathematical Sciences PhD Scholarship Opportunity (3 Positions)

School of Mathematical Sciences PhD Scholarship Opportunity (3 Positions)

School: School of Mathematical Sciences
College: SEFS
Contract Type: Fixed Term Whole-Time
Job Type: Research
Salary: see advert for details

Project Outline

Adaptive dynamical network solutions to ecological restoration

We invite applications for PhD positions in the field of Applied Mathematics (nonlinear network dynamics and tipping points). The PhD will be part of a cross-disciplinary research team including members of the Applied Mathematics, Department and the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences at UCC. The PhD will be based in the School of Mathematical Sciences which provides a vibrant and friendly research environment with expertise including dynamical systems, network dynamics, critical transitions and tipping points, machine learning, analysis of PDEs and scientific computing. 

 The aim of this project is to develop new mathematical techniques for the analysis of nonlinear phenomena in adaptive dynamical networks with applications to restoration ecology. Adaptive dynamical networks are mathematical models of coupled systems where both the systems themselves and the links between them evolve over time. One example of such networks are ecological networks. The new mathematical techniques will advance the fields of network dynamics and tipping points and form the basis for the analysis of specific ecological models, especially the Lough Hyne Marine Nature Reserve ecosystem in West Cork. 

 Additionally, the successful applicants will have the opportunity to work within an interdisciplinary team of applied mathematicians and ecologists at UCC, take part in field trips to Lough Hyne, develop predictive and data-driven theoretical models for real ecosystems, and contribute to the design of novel restoration protocols and conservation measures.

Requirements: Applicants should have a good primary degree (First or Upper Second Class Honours) in an appropriate discipline (e.g. a Mathematics, Physics or Engineering degree with advanced coverage of Mathematics, or other relevant degree). 

If English is not your first language you will need to satisfy the English language requirement:

IELTS: 6.5 - with no individual section lower than 6.0

TOEFL: 90 - with minimum scores as follows: Listening - 20; Reading - 19; Speaking - 21; Writing – 20

Scholarship Details: The PhD Scholarship is funded by the Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future project FFP-A 12066 titled “Adaptive dynamical network solutions to ecological restoration”. The project focuses on mathematics and  is transdisciplinary in nature, with applied mathematics and ecological sciences contributions. The successful applicants will be working under the supervision of Dr Serhiy Yanchuk and Prof Sebastian Wieczorek within the School of Mathematical Sciences, and will be expected to collaborate with the other project members.

The Scholarship will start as soon as possible after August 30th 2025.

The funding includes a stipend of €25,000 per annum and also covers University fees of up to a maximum of €5,500 per annum and is tenable for 4 years. 

The successful applicant will receive a computer for the duration of this project, with access to the advanced computing facilities and support provided within the School of Mathematical Sciences. They will be provided with appropriate desk space, as well as being able to access funding to support registration and travel costs for appropriate conferences. The successful applicant will be offered the opportunity to gain teaching experience. The appointee will be provided with learning and networking opportunities to attain the highest standards of research excellence and support his/her career development.