At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into cutting-edge research on HIV infection dynamics using agent-based modelling.
- Company: Join a world-class Computational Foundry, collaborating with GSK on impactful health research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fully funded PhD with a generous stipend and additional research expenses.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in HIV treatment while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a 2.1 undergraduate degree and a master's, or a first-class degree.
- Other info: Open to UK applicants only; start dates flexible between October 2025 and January 2026.
The predicted salary is between 20780 - 20780 £ per year.
Open to: UK applicants only
Funding providers:EPSRC CASE Conversion with GSK
Subject areas:Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modelling, Mathematical Biology
Project start dates:
- 1 October 2025
- 1 January 2026
** (Please see the note below regarding potential later start dates.)
Supervisors:
- Primary Supervisor: Professor Gibin Powathil
- Secondary Supervisor: Professor Mark Jones
- Additional Supervisor: Dr James Yates, Director GSK
Aligned programme of study:PhD in Mathematics
Mode of study:Full-Time
Project description:
HIV remains one of the most persistent and challenging infections to cure due to its ability to lie dormant in reservoirs within the body: T-cells that are infected but no actively replicating virus. This allows the virus to evade standard treatment approaches. Despite years of antiretroviral therapy (ART), complete eradication of the virus is hindered by the presence of these reservoirs, which require continuous lifetime treatment. Recent efforts to cure HIV infection have focused on developing latency reversing agents as a first step to eradicate the latent reservoir and animal models are being studied to understand these dynamics.
This project proposes a novel pipeline of ideas to generate tools and techniques to simulate HIV infection dynamics using a multiscale agent-based modelling technique (cells, viruses, drugs, antibodies, human lymph system, seconds, days, years).
This project is in collaboration with GSK and we will work closely with experts from GSK.
The Departments of Mathematics is part of the Computational Foundry, a world-class centre for computational research, part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through Welsh Government. The brand-new building of the Computational Foundry provides an ideal environment for doing a PhD.
Funding duration – 4 years
Eligibility
Scholarship available to UK fee-eligible students only
Due to funding restrictions, this scholarship is open to applicants eligible to pay tuition fees at the UK rate only, as defined by UKCISAFull list of categories for HE in Wales
Applicants for PhD must hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level and a master’s degree. Alternatively, applicants with a UK first class honours degree (or non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) not holding a master’s degree, will be considered on an individual basis. International applicants looking for UK award equivalence, click here –Country Specific Entry Requirements – Swansea University
Knowledge in biology is not essential, but the candidate will be required to learn appropriate biological and clinical knowledge in order to develop mathematical and computational models. The candidate is expected to have a strong applied mathematical or related subject background Strong Mathematical modelling skills in one or more programming languages such as Matlab, Python and C/C++ are preferred. Strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to work and learn independently will be required.
English Language
IELTS 6.0 Overall (with no individual component below 5.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent.Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here.
Funding
This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate(currently £20,780 for 2025/26).
Additional research expenses of up to£1,000 per yearwill also be available.
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PhD Studentship: Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Agent-Based Infection Modelling for HIV Treatm[...] employer: Swansea University
Contact Detail:
Swansea University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Agent-Based Infection Modelling for HIV Treatm[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in agent-based modelling and HIV treatment. This will not only help you understand the project better but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current PhD students or faculty members in the Mathematics department at Swansea University. They can provide insights into the programme and may even offer tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your programming skills by working on relevant projects or contributing to open-source initiatives. Highlighting your experience with Matlab, Python, or C/C++ will demonstrate your technical capabilities to the selection committee.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interviews by practising common questions related to mathematical modelling and your understanding of biological concepts. Being able to articulate your thought process clearly will make a strong impression.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Agent-Based Infection Modelling for HIV Treatm[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Read the project description thoroughly to grasp the objectives and requirements. Highlight your understanding of agent-based modelling and its relevance to HIV treatment in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects your academic achievements, particularly in applied mathematics and programming skills. Include any relevant projects or research experience that aligns with the PhD focus.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that outlines your motivation for applying, your relevant skills, and how you plan to contribute to the project. Mention your willingness to learn about biological concepts as required.
Check Eligibility Requirements: Double-check that you meet all eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency. Clearly state your UK fee-eligible status in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swansea University
✨Understand the Project
Make sure you thoroughly read and understand the project description. Familiarise yourself with the concepts of agent-based modelling and HIV dynamics, as this will show your genuine interest and preparedness during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your strong mathematical modelling skills and any programming experience you have, particularly in Matlab, Python, or C/C++. Be ready to discuss specific projects or experiences where you've applied these skills.
✨Prepare Questions
Prepare insightful questions for your interviewers about the project, the collaboration with GSK, and the research environment at the Computational Foundry. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and engagement with the opportunity.
✨Emphasise Interpersonal Skills
Since strong interpersonal skills are required, be prepared to discuss how you work in teams and learn independently. Share examples from your past experiences that illustrate your ability to collaborate effectively.