"EPSRC Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award (IDLA) - Probabilistic Numerics and Inverse Problems"

This PhD forms part of an ongoing collaboration between IBM and the Department of Engineering at the University of Cambridge, centred on the mathematical and computational modelling of Earth and planetary systems. The project will investigate Probabilistic Numerical Computation for large scale Inverse Problems, with a particular focus on cases governed by Partial Differential Equations (PDEs).

Recent developments in probabilistic numerics- where uncertainty in numerical computation is explicitly represented and quantified-offer a promising new perspective for addressing inverse problems in complex geophysical and planetary models. IBM faces several such challenges in practice, many of which are currently approached using Foundation-Model (FM) surrogates. However, certain inverse problems arise in data scarce settings where FM training is not feasible, prompting the exploration of synthetic data generation via direct PDE solvers.

This PhD will examine how probabilistic numerical methods can enhance, supplement, or replace existing approaches, enabling more principled uncertainty quantification and improved performance in large scale inverse modelling tasks relevant to Earth and planetary systems.

EPSRC IDLA studentships are available for eligible home students and a limited number of international students.

Applicants should have (or expect to be awarded) a good UK Master's degree (or overseas equivalent) in a relevant science subject (Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics) and should be self-motivated, able to take ownership of their research, and effectively communicate their research findings.

Applicants are asked to upload the following: 1. A short research statement (maximum 1 page) describing the applicant's past research, future goals, and why the applicant is interested and suitable for this position. 2. A curriculum vitae. 3. A publication list. 4. The contact details of two referees that can provide a letter of recommendation for the applicant.

Applications for the PhD projects should be submitted via the University Application Portal: www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/apply. Please note that there is a £20 fee for applications.

Early applications are encouraged as the position may be filled once suitable candidates are identified.

We reserve the right to fill the position with a qualified candidate prior to the conclusion of the advertising period. Documents in support of applications should include a CV and a research statement.

Should you have any queries, please reach out to Professor Mark Girolami: mag92@cam.ac.uk with a copy to div-d@eng.cam.ac.uk.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Key information

Department/location
Department of Engineering

Salary

Reference
NM48594

Category
Studentships

Date published
22 January 2026

Closing date
14 May 2026