"PhD Studentship: Machine learning and AI for air traffic control, Computer Science"

University of Exeter - ESE

Placed On: 23rd December 2025
Closes: 11th January 2026
Reference: 5518

The always-on, safety-critical nature of air traffic control raises rich and exciting challenges for machine learning and AI.  The University of Exeter in partnership with NATS, the UK’s main air navigation services provider, has established the Centre for Doctoral Training in Air Traffic Management pioneering new research in machine learning and AI for air traffic control.

During their first year, this cohort of funded students will receive training in machine learning and AI methods at the University, together with training in the fundamentals of air traffic control at NATS, based at Whiteley on the south coast.   In addition to this training, in the first year students will undertake two shorter research projects before determining their main research topic in conjunction with academic and industry supervisors. A wide variety of PhD projects is available; example project areas are:

• Human-machine teaming
• AI agents for air traffic control
• Weak signal analysis for air traffic control room situational awareness

These funded PhD scholarships are suitable for students with a background in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Cognitive Science.   Students with interests in machine learning, deep learning, AI, cognitive science, uncertainty quantification, probabilistic methods are encouraged to apply.

For eligible students the studentship will cover Home tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of at least £20,780 for 4 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study.  Students will be based at the Streatham Campus in Exeter with funded visits to NATS.

The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit.

The conditions for eligibility of home fees status are complex and you will need to seek advice if you have moved to or from the UK (or Republic of Ireland) within the past 3 years or have applied for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

The collaboration involves a project partner, NATS, who is providing funding [and other material support to the project]. This means there are special terms that apply to the project, these will be discussed with candidates at interview and fully set out in the offer letter.  The collaboration with NATS is subject to contract.   Full details will be confirmed at offer stage.