For highly motivated individuals with a solid academic background in computer science or mathematics, the University of Leeds is offering a fully supported PhD studentship in Algorithms and Complexity. Based in the School of Computer Science, this 3.5-year research position focuses on two important and quickly developing areas of theoretical computer science: parameterized complexity and approximation. The project’s goal is to create and evaluate effective preprocessing methods (kernelization) and parameterized approximation algorithms for a wide range of NP-hard graph issues.
The University of Leeds is a prominent Russell Group university that was founded in 1904 and is situated in Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. It is renowned across the world for its brilliance in teaching, research, and innovation. The institution draws students from all around the world with its dynamic, welcoming, and research-focused environment. It offers access to cutting-edge facilities, encourages solid industrial partnerships, and supports professional and academic growth in a variety of fields, including science, engineering, business, humanities, and social sciences.
The University of Leeds, which is dedicated to diversity, inclusivity, and academic quality, makes sure that PhD students have access to state-of-the-art research resources, individualized supervision, and a collaborative academic culture. People from all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups, are encouraged to apply in order to contribute to a vibrant and welcoming research community.
Host Country: UK
University: University of Leeds
Opportunity Type: PhD, Studentship
Subject: Algorithms
Eligibility Country: Domestic Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- A minimum of a first-class or upper-second-class British Bachelor’s Honours degree (or its equivalent) in computer science, mathematics, or a similar discipline is required.
- should be well-versed in mathematics and have a keen interest in discrete algorithms.
- Only citizens of the United Kingdom are eligible to apply for the studentship.
- Non-native speakers must have a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.5 in writing and 6.0 in reading, speaking, and listening, or an equivalent certification.
- Before submitting their application, candidates are advised to speak with Dr. Fahad Panolan informally.
Benefits:
- Complete tuition reimbursement for the full 3.5-year PhD program, guaranteeing that all educational expenses are covered.
- a £20,780 annual tax-free maintenance stipend (in line with the UKRI standard rate) to cover living costs during the study time.
- In order to provide students time to finish their theses, the stipend may be extended for up to six more months during the final year. However, students must pay the £340 extra writing-up cost for the 2025–2026 academic year.
- Travel, research-related expenditures, and conference attendance are not covered by the studentship and must be handled individually by the student.
Deadline: 30 January 2026
