Project Manager: Mathematics and AI (MARS)

We are seeking an experienced full-time Project Manager for MARS, a new £15M investment in applied mathematics and AI for real-world applications within the School of Mathematics at Lancaster University.

“MARS: Mathematics for AI in Real-world Systems” is an exciting new £15M investment at Lancaster University, expanding on our excellence in spatial epidemiological and environmental modelling.  Bringing in 10 new academic posts, with associated research staff and students, MARS will be a centre for mathematics research in AI, supporting flagship strategies in Manufacturing, Environmental Science, Health, and Cybersecurity alongside active industry engagement.  MARS will deliver new undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, providing student opportunities to address a major skills-gap in mathematics.  This role will help us deliver our vision in becoming a unique national capability in the North West, pushing the boundaries of AI to tackle key challenges in the modern world. 

As the senior professional services role within MARS, you will be responsible for coordinating the initial delivery and ongoing management of the new unit, in collaboration with senior academic staff and existing professional services staff at Lancaster.  We need an enthusiastic individual with previous experience of project management to ensure the smooth running of MARS.  Previous experience must include:

• working in an academic context including HR processes, budget responsibilities, annual reporting, and research grant management;
• leading engagement with academic and non-academic stakeholders;
• organising and managing meetings and events, including Annual Scientific Meetings, Industry Weeks, and public engagements;
• running promotional media campaigns including web presence and social media.

We welcome applications from all diversity groups. The School aims to meet the needs of each staff member within an inclusive environment: new members are provided with mentoring and support from a carefully selected group of colleagues, with a lead individual taking responsibility for personal development. We are committed to family-friendly and flexible working, and seek to promote a healthy work-life balance. We have held Athena Swan Bronze awards at University (2008) and School (2017) level, and we are a registered supporter of the London Mathematical Society’s Good Practice Scheme. We will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible and job-share basis wherever possible and habitually agree to flexible modes of working.

The post is for indefinite employment at Lancaster, and is not limited to the first 5 years of MARS funding by Research England.

Potential applicants are encouraged to contact the Head of MARS, Professor Chris Jewell <[email protected] > or the School Director of Research, Professor Rebecca Killick <[email protected] > for informal enquiries.

Unless specified otherwise, all advertised roles are UK based.

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