Fareham-based NATS and the University of Exeter have launched the first NATS-led Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) for Air Traffic Management (ATM).

This programme, worth more than £1 million, will welcome its first 10 PhD students in October 2025.

The CDT aims to tackle key ATM challenges by developing the next generation of researchers and industry leaders, using advanced research and innovation in fields like artificial intelligence technologies and control engineering.

Professor Richard Cannon, CDT industry lead at NATS, said: "Machine learning has the potential to transform air traffic management, making it safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.

"This new CDT in partnership with the University of Exeter will help us to equip the next generation of researchers with the necessary skills and knowledge to shape the future of aviation."

The CDT will provide broad training for its students, covering subjects such as navigation, machine learning, and uncertainty quantification.

The PhD positions are currently open for applications.