PhD Studentship in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in the Mathematics for our Future Climate: Theory, Data and Simulation

Project title: Large ensembles of machine learning forecasts for advanced nonlinear filters in atmospheric data assimilation 

Supervisors: Sarah L Dance (UoR & NCEO), Eviatar Bach (UoR) & Amos Lawless (UoR & NCEO)

Project Overview:   

Recently, machine learning (ML) weather forecasting models have shown deterministic forecast skill approaching that of physics-based models, at a small fraction of the computational cost. This provides the opportunity to create very large ensembles of ML forecasts, with the potential to improve data assimilation (DA), the process of optimally combining forecasts and observations to improve the accuracy of weather predictions.

National Centre for Earth Observation PhD studentship at the University of Reading.

This studentship is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in the Mathematics for our Future Climate: Theory, Data and Simulation: https://mfccdt.ac.uk/.

This is a joint programme involving the University of Reading, Imperial College London, and the University of Southampton.

It is a dynamic and interdisciplinary initiative that harnesses the power of mathematics to address the urgent issues presented by climate change. By joining our community, you will embark on a journey of cutting-edge research, collaboration with leading experts, and hands-on experience in shaping the future of our planet.

As well as being a part of the MFC CDT, you will be affiliated to the National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO), a UK research centre dedicated to the long-term study and exploitation of satellite and remote sensing Earth Observation data for our planet’s health and sustainability https://www.nceo.ac.uk/. 

Eligibility: 

• Candidates are typically expected to hold a master’s degree in mathematics (including MMath) or a closely related field with a strong mathematical foundation by the start of the program. We encourage applications from individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree followed by substantial, highly relevant work or research experience.
• We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in mathematics and strongly encourage applications from women and other underrepresented groups.
• Due to restrictions on the funding this studentship is open to applicants with home student fee status.

Funding Details:   

• Starts: September 2025
• 4-year award
• Funding covers full tuition fees, plus UKRI stipend which includes a London weighting

How to apply:  

Apply online via the above ‘Apply’ button. During the application process please select the PhD in Mathematics.

*Important notes*

1) Please quote the reference ‘DRC25-012’ in the ‘Scholarships applied for’ box which appears within the Funding Section of your on-line application.
2) If the application system prompts you to submit a research proposal, please paste in the project title and move on to the next step in the application.

Application Deadline: Sunday, 9 March 2025

Further Enquiries:  

Please note that, where a candidate is successful in being awarded funding, this will be confirmed via a formal studentship award letter; this will be provided separately from any Offer of Admission and will be subject to standard checks for eligibility and other criteria. 

For further details please contact Admission.CDT-MFC@reading.ac.uk

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