Professor Jon Gillard appointed to EPSRC Mathematical Sciences Strategic Advisory Team
6 March 2026
Professor Jon Gillard, Professor of Statistics and Data Science and Deputy Head of the School of Mathematics, has been appointed to the Mathematical Sciences Strategic Advisory Team of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
EPSRC is the UK’s principal funder of research and training in engineering and the physical sciences. Its Strategic Advisory Teams comprise a small number of senior figures drawn from across academia, industry and the public sector. Members are selected for their disciplinary standing, strategic judgement and breadth of experience, and are invited to provide high-level advice on national research priorities, emerging scientific opportunities and long-term investment strategy.
EPSRC describes its Strategic Advisory Teams as a key mechanism for providing the strategic advice needed to develop and adapt plans across its research portfolio. The teams are tasked with identifying emerging research and training opportunities, advising on the balance of investment across disciplines, and helping to ensure that the UK research base is positioned to meet future societal and economic needs. In this way, the Mathematical Sciences SAT plays a central role in shaping the future direction and resilience of UK mathematics, statistics and operational research.
“The mathematical sciences underpin advances across AI, engineering, security and the data-driven economy. I am delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to EPSRC’s strategic thinking and to support the continued strength and international competitiveness of the UK mathematical sciences community.”
Deputy Head of School
Appointment to a SAT is widely regarded as a prestigious national service role and reflects significant recognition by EPSRC of an individual’s research leadership and influence within the community.
Jon’s research spans statistics and data science, with particular expertise in structured low-rank methods and their applications in areas such as AI and defence. Alongside his research, he has led major interdisciplinary initiatives and strategic partnerships with government and industry, contributing to Cardiff’s growing profile in data-driven and computational sciences.
This appointment further enhances Cardiff University’s visibility in national research leadership and aligns strongly with the University’s ambitions around research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact.
