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PhD track Mathematics

WHY ENROLL IN THIS PROGRAM?

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Get ready for a PhD by starting research at an early stage

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Be closely associated with the research activities carried out in a world-renowned innovation cluster

Benefit from individual and personalized supervision by a faculty member

• Description
• Associated Laboratories

The PhD Track Mathematics is a 5 year-program at Institut Polytechnique de Paris opened to excellent students having completed their Bachelor in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics with highest honors. This five-year PhD Track is intended to train future high-level researchers in scientific and mathematical disciplines. 

It starts with a two-year period with advanced applied mathematics courses in the chosen field. Students also participate in research projects carried out by IP Paris Laboratories involved in the Track and attend seminars on specialized research topics. Supervised by experienced researchers at the forefront of research, they thus benefit from first-class research experience. At the end of the second year, the students who meet the academic requirements receive a Master Degree. Those who have achieved outstanding results and identified a thesis subject and a supervisor in one of the involved Labs are allowed to start a three-year PhD program.

Students are offered two pathways:

The goal of this program is to provide advanced training in mathematical modeling in economics, finance and actuarial science at the highest international level, with a strong emphasis on advanced quantitative methods for both theoretical and empirical analyses. Specific application domains include stochastic modeling for sustainable finance and energy finance, including renewable energy production. 

This pathway offers a wide choice of courses in all fields of Theoretical and Applied Mathematics and Research Internships. It is also possible to combine these disciplinary courses with relevant courses in other disciplines (like in Physics, Mechanics, Computer Science or Biology for example). 

• Bring excellent Bachelor students in mathematics and applied mathematics to the realization of a high level PhD in 5 years at Institut Polytechnique de Paris
• Develop a coherent training program, based on solid scientific bases
• Specialize in a variety of sub-areas of applied mathematics, to be chosen among the rich offer of IP Paris (second year).
• Integrate into the world of research by spending time within the research Labs, conducting a research project under the supervision of a faculty member, writing a research report (second year) and preparing manuscripts for publication in international peer-reviewed journals (PhD years).

The five-year curriculum of the PhD track trains students in cutting-edge research for them to pursue international careers in prestigious universities or leading companies in their domain. 

Every year, the program of every student has to be discussed and validated by his/her tutor, who is a member of the IP Paris faculty. According to the student’s specialization wishes, the course program will be individualized as much as possible.

This pathway starts with a two-year period with advanced courses on mathematical finance, financial econometrics, advanced times series,  actuarial sciences and green and sustainable finance. Students also participate in research projects carried out by IP Paris Laboratories involved in the Track and attend seminars on specialized research topics. Supervised by experienced scientists at the forefront of research in these domains, they thus benefit from first-class research experience. At the end of the second year, the students who meet the academic requirements receive a Master Degree. Those who have achieved outstanding results and identified a thesis subject and a supervisor in one of the involved Labs are allowed to start a three-year PhD program.

The first year of the PhD Track is based on the Master 1, Parcours Jacques Hadamard , with a large choice of courses, both in Fundamental and Applied Mathematics.

The second year of the PhD Track is mainly based on the Master 2 program Mathematics and Applications proposed by IP Paris and Partner Institutions (with a large choice of Mathematical Specializations, like for example Algebra, Analysis and Geometry – Analysis, Modeling and Simulation – Mathematics, Vision and Machine Learning – Probability and Statistics, etc.).

During these two years, other Educational Units are also proposed: French (for non French native speakers), English, Research Seminars (at IHES), for example. 

In the first and second years, it is also possible to follow courses from other Departments at Institut Polytechnique de Paris (Physics, Mechanics, Computer Science or Biology) and from the Master 1,2 of Paris-Saclay Mathematics  Department.

• Center for Research in Economics and Statistics (CREST)
• Applied Mathematics Center (CMAP)
• Applied Mathematics UER (UMA)
• CMAP: Applied Mathematics Center (EP/CNRS)
• CMLS: Laurent Schwartz Mathematics Center (EP/CNRS)
• CREST: Center for Research in Economics and Statistics (ENSAE Paris)
• UMA: Applied Mathematics UER (ENSTA Paris)
• IDS : Image, Data, Signal (Télécom Paris)
• CITI: Communications, Images et Traitement de l’Information (Télécom SudParis)

Admission requirements

Academic prerequisites.

Completion of a Bachelor in mathematics, with highest honors, at Institut Polytechnique de Paris or equivalent in France or abroad.

Evidence of research potential is essential as the main goal of such a PhD program is to train first class researchers. 

Students who have completed the first year of an equivalent program may exceptionally be directly admitted to the second year (4-year PhD program).

Language prerequisites

A certificate of proficiency in English (level B2) is required (TOEIC, IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge ESOL), except for native speakers and students who previously studied in English.

How to apply

Applications are exclusively online. You will be required to provide the following documents:

• Transcript 
• Two academic references (added online directly by your referees)  
• CV/resume 
• Statement of purpose

You will receive an answer in your candidate space within 2 months following the closing date of the application session. 

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for 2022-2023 are subject to increase

• Regular fees: 243€
• Engineer students enrolled in one of the five member schools of Institut Polytechnique de Paris (Ecole polytechnique, ENSTA Paris, ENSAE Paris, Télécom Paris and Télécom SudParis): 159€
• Special cases: please refer to the "Cost of studies" section of the FAQs

Applications and admission dates

Coordinators for the mathematics for finance, economics and sustainable development pathway.

Sonia Fliss

Stéphane Bijakowski 

Olivier Le Maitre 

Peter Tankov

Coordinator for the Mathematics Jacques Hadamard pathway

General enquiry.

[email protected]

• Department of Mathematical Sciences
• Study programmes
• PhD program

The PhD program

The PhD program at the Department of Mathematical Sciences usually lasts 3 years. The typical entry level is a Master's Degree. The program consists first of all of an independent research project resulting in the end in a PhD thesis with publishable results.

It is also a part of the PhD program to follow a number of PhD courses totalling 30 ECTS, and our PhD students are expected to spend 3-6 months at a foreign research institution during the PhD program.

PhD students (except industrial PhD's) are required to teach, typically as teaching assistants. Our (advanced) courses are taught in English. Our PhD students must be able to teach in English and to follow courses taught in English.

A PhD degree in mathematics will make you qualified for a wide range of career possibilities including continuing an academic career or going into the private or the public sector. 

PhD students who hold a stipend from the University of Copenhagen will receive a salary of about 3,300 EUR/month before taxes and 2,200 EUR/month after taxes. This stipend also includes a travel allowance for participation in conferences and for research visit(s) to foreign research institutions. The Department of Mathematical Sciences offers PhD degrees in pure and applied mathematics, statistics, insurance and financial mathematics within four research sections and two centres:

• Algebra & Geometry
• Analysis & Quantum
• Insurance and Economics
• Statistics and Probability
• Copenhagen Centre for Geometry and Topology (GeoTop)
• Centre for the Mathematics of Quantum Theory (QMATH)

The department currently has about 45 tenured faculty, 25 postdocs, and more than 40 PhD students.

Applying for a PhD

• After accepting a PhD stipend  
• Mini-guide on how to fill the online application form

For current PhD students

See MATHnet  (department intranet) for courses, economy, travel etc.

PhD students

Silvan Vollmer, PhD student

Taro Spirig, PhD student

Priya Kaveri, PhD student

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Doctoral programs

Mathphdinfrance.

The FSMP is a partner in the COFUND MathPhDInFrance international docroral training program, cofunded by Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions within the framework of the European Horizon Europe programme “Marie Sklodowska-Curie Co-funding of Regional, National and International Programmes” (Grand Agreement n°101126554). MathPhDInFrance  offers grants for co-tutored theses between a laboratory in the Paris region and one in another. Read more ...

MathInParis2020

The international Doctoral Training in Mathematical Sciences in Paris -  MathInParis2020  - Cofunded by Marie Sklodowska‑Curie Actions within the framework of the European Horizon 2020 program (Grant Agreement n° 945332),  offered 40 PhD fellowships  through two calls in 2020 and 2021. Read more...

Stays for PhD students

The Fondation Sciences Mathématiques de Paris finances, for doctoral students who are members of a  laboratory affiliated with the foundation , scientific research stays in external laboratories (French or foreign) for periods of at least one month.

Read more...

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PhD Pure Mathematics / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

In your application you’ll need to include:

• The name of this programme
• Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
• Your proposed supervisor’s name
• If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
• A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants for what to include)
• Details of your previous university level study
• Names and contact details of your two referees.

Programme options

Programme description.

The The Department of Mathematics has an outstanding research reputation. The research facilities include one of the finest libraries in the country, the John Rylands University Library. This library has recently made a very large commitment of resources to providing comprehensive online facilities for the free use of the University's research community. Postgraduate students in the Department benefit from direct access to all the Library electronic resources from their offices.

Many research seminars are held in the Department on a weekly basis and allow staff and research students to stay in touch with the latest developments in their fields. The Department is one of the lead partners in the MAGIC project and research students can attend any of the postgraduate courses offered by the MAGIC consortium.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £4,786; Band B £7,000; Band C £10,000; Band D £14,500; Band E £24,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £28,000; Band B £30,000; Band C £35,500; Band D £43,000; Band E £57,000
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £2393; Band B £3,500; Band C £5,000; Band D £7,250; Band E 12,250 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £14,000; Band B £15,000; Band C £17,750; Band D £21,500; Band E £28,500

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for Home students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit the postgraduate fees page .

Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

For more information about our scholarships, visit our funding page or use our funding database to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Contact details

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.  Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

• Mathematics

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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PhD program - Graduate School of Mathematics

Key features.

• 90 PhD students graduated per year out of 350 PhD students in total
• 16 laboratories
• 1 Doctoral School: Hadamard Doctoral School of Mathematics
• 350 researchers

An international renown

Mathematics at Université Paris-Saclay covers almost the entire field of the discipline , from pure mathematics to interfaces with neighboring sciences : biology, computer science, scientific computation and engineering, theoretical physics.

In Paris-Saclay's PhD program, the scientific development of our talented students benefits from an exceptional concentration of renowned mathematicians. The Graduate School of Mathematics alongside the Fondation Mathématique Jacques Hadamard aims to attract the best young minds from around the world to this discipline, which is rich in career opportunities.

Mathematicians started to settle in the Saclay area about 60 years ago . Since then, thousands of graduate students in mathematics have been trained here. Nowadays, our alumni have spread across the world, and they have collected an impressive number of awards . "Orsay" and "IHES", for instance, embody the excellence of French mathematics worldwide.

Society's expectations of mathematics are high

It is estimated that in France, 9% of jobs, representing 15% of GDP, use mathematical skills. Nearly half of all key technologies are impacted by advances in mathematics. To meet these expectations, the Paris-Saclay area has an exceptionally favorable scientific environment.

Starting a PhD at the Graduate School Mathematics

PhD fellowships are available for students who have already completed, in France or abroad, a curriculum equivalent to a French Master's program . Consult the different Masters 1 and Masters 2 that we offer .

Each candidate must choose a PhD advisor and agree with them on a detailed thesis subject (alternatively, a few PhD projects are posted on the EDMH website ). Candidates usually start investigating for a potential PhD advisor as early as January. The next step is to apply for funding ; various types of fellowships are available, with most deadlines occurring in April and May (with some exceptions).  The various steps towards registration in the PhD program are detailed on the website of the Hadamard Doctoral School of Mathematics  (EDMH).

To consult the Hadamard Doctoral School of Mathematics (EDMH) website

Hadamard Doctoral School of Mathematics (EDMH) on video

Coming to france.

Support for international students

Need help to prepare your arrival in France? Get lost with all the things you have to do during your stay? Don't panic! We've prepared a summary for you. Consult the international student's web page to know more about the E-international welcome office, the Buddy Programme, French classes, Orsay/Versailles/Evry campus, the GATE, welcoming events...

• See the web page for international students

Summer Schools

Université Paris-Saclay offers undergrad, graduate, and postgraduate students, as well as engineers and researchers, a selection of summer schools and short training programs in a range of thematic fields.

• Discover the summer schools in Mathematics and submit your application.

International programs

Chateaubriand fellowship program, Fulbright, Taiwan Paris-Saclay Doctoral Scholarships... the Université Paris-Saclay allows international PhD students to pursue research for their thesis in France. 

• To know more about these programs

To know everything about the PhD

Doctorate and habilitation to supervise research (HDR in French)

La Maison du Doctorat

Associations of doctoral students and PhDs

If you have any questions about the PhD you can contact us at: [email protected]

Doctoral Programme in Mathematics and Statistics

The Doctoral Programme in Mathematics and Statistics offers dissertation topics and guidance pure and applied mathematics and mathematical statistics which are represented in the research profile of the department. These include analysis, inverse problems, mathematical biology, mathematical physics, mathematical logics and statistics. Topics bordering other research fields can be considered if they have a strong mathematical component.

Want to know more? Visit our profile & activities page to learn more about the programme.

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MPhil/PhD Mathematics

• Graduate research
• Department of Mathematics
• Application code G1ZM
• Starting 2024
• Home full-time: Open
• Overseas full-time: Open
• Location: Houghton Street, London

This programme offers the chance to undertake a substantial piece of work that is worthy of publication and which makes an original contribution to the field of mathematics within our four broad disciplines – discrete mathematics and algorithms, financial mathematics and control theory, game theory, and operations research. You will begin on the MPhil, and will need to meet certain requirements to be upgraded to PhD status.

You have a plethora of topics to choose from including combinatorics, combinatorial optimisation, computational learning theory, control theory, financial mathematics, game theory, graph theory, integer programming, mechanism design, polyhedral combinatorics, probabilistic analysis, theory of computation and algorithms, and in the applications of mathematics in areas such as inspections, network optimisation, telecommunications, transportation, and economics.

Over the course of the years, the Department organises a number of personal development workshops for PhD students, designed to provide tailored support for specific areas of interest, such as careers, impact, and final year processes. Crucially, we have close ties with other departments at LSE, such as Statistics, Finance, Economics and Management, and we are an integral part of the mathematical community of the University of London.

All research students in the Department are provided with some funding each year to encourage and support their research activities, such as conference attendance and purchasing books and technology. Additional research funds are also available, upon application.

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for mphil/phd mathematics.

Merit in a taught master's degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline and a 2:1 degree or equivalent in mathematics. 

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet our minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission. 

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

LSE values diversity and strives to promote equality at all levels. We strongly encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, and members of other groups under-represented in higher education.

Assessing your application

Making an application.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your:

- academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications) - CV - statement of academic purpose - outline research proposal - sample of written work - references

In addition to the general guidelines on application documents available  here , you can find specific guidelines for some of the application documents required as part of your application for the MPhil/PhD Mathematics programme below.  

Academic Achievement Provide detailed transcripts, with individual marks for all courses on your undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes you have completed, and any available/provisional marks obtained in your current degree programme.

CV - Provide details of your education history. - Provide details of any employment history or other professional experience, including internships or volunteering activities. - Mention any relevant prior research experience, such as thesis work, research projects.    - If relevant, mention any career breaks or career changes, for example due to caring responsibilities.

Statement of Academic Purpose (1 page) - Explain your motivation for doing a PhD. - Explain your current career goals and aspirations and clarify how the PhD programme might help you realise them.  

Outline Research Proposal (1-2 pages) Many applicants will have little or no prior experience of research and therefore we do not expect a fully developed research proposal. The following is a recommendation of what to address, in a concise manner, in the research proposal. - Explain which overall research area you are interested in and explain why.  - Provide an example of one or two research papers that you have read or open problems you have heard about (in your proposed research area) and explain why you found them interesting. - Clarify who you see as potential supervisors and explain why.  - Explain how your training and skills are suitable for conducting research in your area of interest. For example, provide specific examples of related courses you have taken, and any research, internship, or work experiences that are relevant to your research area of interest. - If applicable, describe how any dissertation work from your BSc or MSc is relevant to your planned PhD research (be aware that this research will most likely be different).

Sample of Written Work (at least 5 pages) Submit something that showcases your mathematical writing. This could for example be a thesis, a project report, or some detailed exercise solutions. We like to see a writing sample that contains both mathematical details and plain text in which you discuss/interpret/explain the mathematical results. You can submit more than one writing sample if you only have short pieces of written work.

References You will need to nominate two referees. Academic referees are preferred, i.e., people who have taught you at university level.

If you can find a referee who can specifically comment on your research potential and your academic background in your chosen research area, that would be helpful. If you have any previous research experience, you could ask supervisors/project partners for a reference letter. An academic reference from your current degree programme where you already took exams are usually most helpful. If you have not taken any exams in your current programme yet, you can also ask for reference letters from previous degrees.

The referees will be asked to provide a reference letter and answer a selection of multiple-choice questions in which they will need to provide an assessment of your academic performance/potential etc. and research potential. --------------

Completed applications are sent to the Department after they are processed by the Graduate Admissions Office. In the Department, the numbers and quality of competing applications and the availability of an appropriate supervisor are considered. If your application is shortlisted for consideration, an interview will be arranged with the appropriate members of staff by telephone or video conferencing software. Once all interviews have been conducted, the Department will decide on who to accept and who to offer funding. If your application is received before the deadline, we aim to notify you about the outcome by the end of Winter Term.

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE, but we recommend that you do see our  English language requirements  for further information.

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 23 May 2024 . However, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must have submitted your application and all supporting documents by the funding deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details.

Fees and funding

Every research student is charged a fee in line with the fee structure for their programme. The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for MPhil/PhD Mathematics

Home students: £4,829 for the first year (provisional) Overseas students: £22,632 for the first year

The fee is likely to rise over subsequent years of the programme. The School charges home research students in line with the level of fee that the Research Councils recommend. The fees for overseas students are likely to rise in line with the assumed percentage increase in pay costs (ie, 4 per cent per annum).

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Scholarships, studentships and other funding

The School recognises that the  cost of living in London  may be higher than in your home town or country, and we provide generous scholarships each year to home and overseas students.

This programme is eligible for  LSE PhD Studentships and  Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funding . Selection for the PhD Studentships and ESRC funding is based on receipt of an application for a place – including all ancillary documents, before the funding deadline.

Funding deadline for LSE PhD Studentships: 15 January 2024

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.  Find out more about financial support.

In addition, students on this programme are eligible for the Department of Mathematics' PhD Prize for Outstanding Academic Performance , which is an annual award for the best PhD performance from a student completing in the previous academic year.

External funding 

There may be other funding opportunities available through other organisations or governments and we recommend you investigate these options as well. 

Further information

Fees and funding opportunities

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page.

Programme structure and courses

In addition to progressing with your research, you are expected to take the listed training and transferable skills courses. You may take courses in addition to those listed and should discuss this with your supervisor. At the end of your second year (full-time), you will need to satisfy certain requirements, and if you meet these, will be retroactively upgraded to PhD status.

Training courses – Compulsory (not examined) Courses designed for research in Mathematics need to be chosen in consultation with your lead supervisor. Discrete Mathematics and Algorithms, Operations Research and Game Theory students will attend four courses organised by the London Taught Course Centre .

There are separate arrangements for students in Financial Mathematics, where courses are provided by the London Graduate School in Mathematical Finance . You also have the option of attending or auditing LSE Taught Masters modules, where appropriate.

Transferable skills courses – Compulsory (not examined) Mathematics: Seminar on Combinatorics, Games and Optimisation Research Student Seminar – you must attend and make presentations

Second year

Transferable skills courses – Compulsory (not examined) Mathematics Seminar Research Student Seminar - you must attend and make presentations.

Transferable skills courses – Compulsory (not examined) Mathematics Seminar Research Student Seminar - you must attend and make presentations.

Fourth year

Transferable skills courses– Compulsory (not examined) Mathematics Seminar Research Student Seminar - you must attend and make presentations.

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page .  

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s  Calendar , or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the  updated graduate course and programme information page.

Supervision, progression and assessment

Supervision.

Supervisors are selected during the application process, where we take into account the information and preferences you mention in your application. You will be assigned to:

-  One or two principal supervisor(s) with requisite knowledge in your chosen field. Most of your day-to-day supervision will be with the principal supervisor(s). If the research project or your interests shift during your time in the Department, it is possible to change principal supervisor(s). - If there is only one principal supervisor, an appropriate second supervisor will be appointed. There will always be a principal supervisor from the Mathematics Department. Where appropriate, a second or joint supervisor may be appointed from another department or institution.

Progression and assessment

You are initially registered for the MPhil, and will be able to upgrade to PhD registration during your second year, dependent on satisfactory progress. Progress is assessed regularly by your supervisors, in consultation with the Doctoral Programme Director, on the basis of the extent to which the agreed research goals have been achieved. Any upgrade is dependent on the successful completion of a Major Review, the date of which is determined by the Doctoral Programme Director in consultation with the lead supervisor.

By the end of your first year you will be required to present a more detailed project proposal. The proposal, which should illustrate your command of the theoretical and empirical literature related to your topic, will be a clear statement of the theoretical and methodological approach you will take. It will include a draft outline and work plan, which should identify any periods of fieldwork necessary to your research. This should demonstrate the coherence and feasibility of the proposed research and thesis.

Study facilities

Students are provided with their own workspace and Windows PC within the Department of Mathematics’ PhD study room.  This area was recently renovated, and has been modernised to become a professional, purposeful, and relaxed work environment. Students are thus offered a supportive environment within a community of scholars and are well-placed to pursue a career building on their research accomplishments. 

In addition to the space provided in Columbia House, a dedicated Postgraduate Common Room is available to students in 32 Lincoln's Inn Fields.  Students will also find the  PhD Academy  useful, a dedicated space and services hub for doctoral candidates.

Students will have access to the comprehensive facilities of the  LSE Library  and to the libraries of other colleges of the University of London. They will also benefit from the IT and other facilities available at the School.

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Wellbeing Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme  and arranging  exam adjustments.  They run groups and workshops.  

IT help  – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre  – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Student stories

To read all our Alumni Stories,  see our webpage here .

Quick Careers Facts for the Department of Mathematics

Median salary of our PG students 15 months after graduating: £39,500

• Financial and Professional Services              
• Information, Digital Technology and Data            
• Accounting and Auditing              
• Real Estate, Environment and Energy 
• Advertising, Marketing, PR, Media, Entertainment, Publishing and Journalism

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

The data was collected as part of the Graduate Outcomes survey, which is administered by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Graduates from 2020-21 were the fourth group to be asked to respond to Graduate Outcomes. Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and who were working in full-time employment.

Students who successfully complete the programme often embark on an academic career. 

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Support for your career

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the  support available to students through LSE Careers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i or must i teach as a mphil/phd student in the department.

All mathematics MPhil/PhD students are usually expected to undertake some class teaching for the Department. You will be paid separately for this. Further details will be provided on your arrival. 

Will I receive any additional funding to support conference attendance, book purchases, etc.?

Each registered PhD student in the Department is entitled to claim up to £500 per academic year towards their research expenses relating directly to your studies, such as the purchase of books or conference attendance. All claims must be accompanied by full receipts. 

Can I apply to start in the Winter Term (January) or Spring Term (April)?

Under execptional circumstances, starting in January may be permissable.  Starting in the Spring Term is not permitted.

I am already enrolled in a PhD programme at another university and I would like to transfer to your PhD programme. How do I do that?

LSE does not accept transfer of credits. All MPhil/PhD applicants, regardless of previous academic experience, are required to complete a formal application. Previous research will be considered, but all students are initially registered as MPhil students by the School, are upgraded to PhD status according to the Department's standard policy and are required to fulfil the School's minimum registration requirements.

Can I apply to study part-time?

We will consider applications for part-time registrations in the PhD programme, subject to visa regulations. Applicants with personal circumstances such as caring responsibilities who may otherwise not pursue a PhD may consider this route. We emphasise that studying for a PhD requires a serious commitment of regular periods of time and concentration. Pursuing a PhD while holding full-time employment is discouraged.

We would need to see evidence that an applicant:

• Would be available to participate in activities that are essential to becoming an independent researcher (e.g. attend seminars, go to conferences, follow taught courses in their first year(s), etc.)
• Can find mutual times to work with their proposed supervisor
• Can spend sufficient time on their PhD research

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

LSE visits you

Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

How to apply

Virtual Graduate Open Day

Register your interest

Related programmes, mphil/phd statistics.

Code(s) G4ZS

Request a prospectus

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• PhD track in Mathematics and applications

The PSL PhD track in Mathematics and Applications is a fully-funded 5-year program structured around two phases. During the first phase, students draw on courses from PSL’s research master in Mathematics and Applications and start working towards their research project. The research master is a stepping-stone towards the second phase of the PhD track, during which students work on their research project in one of PSL’s labs ( CEREMADE or DMA ). During that second phase, students are mentored to gain state-of-the-arts research methods, write academic papers, present at academic conferences and prepare for the academic job market. | Application deadline:  3 january 2023 |

PHASE 1 | Research Master in Mathematics and applications

PhD track students will complete their research master (Year 2) in the Applied and Theoretical Mathematics (MATH) track. Students will explore advanced topics in mathematics in an up-to-date, transversal and transdisciplinary manner. They will gain expert knowledge in theoretical and applied mathematics through research-oriented classes and multiple internship opportunities. Please note: The Master's program (2 years) can be adapted for students who already have a Master's degree (or who have validated a Master's degree Year 1)   

Phase 2 | Doctoral studies

During their doctoral years, students will benefit from the following programs:

• PSL interdisciplinary courses: PSL is a strongly interdisciplinary university with special courses that cut across our disciplinary graduate programs and are open to all graduate students
• A CEREMADE Colloquium seminar is organized once a month (Master and PhD)
• Students  are strongly advised to attend
• An Analysis and Probability seminar takes place once a week (3 times a month), it is also recommended to participate. 

Resources for prospective students

Contact:  [email protected] Applications: 17 october - 11 december 2023

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The Vienna School of Mathematics

is a joint doctoral program of the mathematics institutions of the University of Vienna and TU Wien . This doctoral program intends to provide a top-level scientific training of doctoral students in all fields of mathematics. The graduate school aims at attracting excellent students from Europe and around the world to Vienna and to guide them towards research at the forefront of modern mathematics in an exciting and dynamic scientific environment in Vienna.

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PhD candidates carry out a programme of independent research, leading to a PhD thesis in typically 4 years.

A description of the research areas can be found on the website of the Mathematical Institute (MI) . Specific requirements of the PhD programme depend on the specialisation chosen and are determined in consultation with the supervisor of the thesis. The students actively participate in national and international meetings as part of their training. The PhD thesis is written in English, the language commonly used in the research groups.

An MSc degree is required for admission to the PhD programme.

Candidates can apply for a paid position at the Mathematical Institute at any time of the year. Please see the university's job portal for vacancies. Positions are filled on a merit basis. A paid position includes limited assistance in undergraduate teaching. It may also be possible to enter the PhD programme with self-obtained grants. Grants must provide for costs of living and for a bench fee.

• CHE University Ranking
• DAAD database on admission requirements
• Help and Advice

International Programmes 2023/2024

Berlin Mathematical School – PhD Programme Berlin Mathematical School – PhD Programme

Technische universität berlin • berlin.

• Course details
• Costs / Funding
• Requirements / Registration
• About the university

Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Mathematics Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Mathematics

Courses are held in English. Participants can choose to write the dissertation in English or in German.

The BMS offers assistance to those international students with little or no German language skills by covering the costs of one preparatory language course in German as a Foreign Language ("Deutsch als Fremdsprache", also known as "DaF").

The first-round application deadline of 1 December 2023 is for - Phase I applicants requiring admission with a scholarship and - Phase II applicants who want to start in April, May, June or July 2024.

The second-round application deadline of 1 April 2024 is for - Phase I applicants requiring admission only and - Phase II applicants who want to start in August, September or October 2024.

The Berlin Mathematical School (BMS) is the joint doctoral programme of the three Berlin universities and the graduate school of the Cluster of Excellence MATH+. Areas of expertise include:

• Differential geometry, global analysis and mathematical physics
• Algebraic and arithmetic geometry, number theory
• Stochastics and mathematical finance
• Discrete mathematics and optimisation
• Geometry, topology and visualisation
• Numerical analysis and scientific computing
• Applied analysis and differential equations
• Mathematics of data science

The BMS programme is divided into two phases: Phase I (four semesters) leads students from the Bachelor's degree to the BMS Qualifying Exam. Each student is registered as a regular student at one of the three universities and has a Phase I adviser at the same university. Phase I requires students to successfully complete five basic courses and at least two advanced courses, including a seminar. The BMS basic course programme is held in English and is coordinated between the three universities. Students are expected to attend the MATH+ Friday Colloquia regularly. At the end of Phase I, students have to pass an oral "Qualifying Exam" in order to continue on to Phase II. Phase I students must also use Phase I to find a supervisor for their dissertation research in Phase II. Attending more than the one mandatory seminar is a good way to get to know professors and their research, to find out what the open questions in the field are and whether a professor is willing to take on a new PhD student. Every student has the possibility to earn an MSc at the end of Phase I. Phase II is the research phase of the BMS PhD programme. BMS doctoral candidates should take advantage of the many opportunities offered by Berlin's mathematics research environment, including: DFG Research Training Groups (RTG), International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS), etc.

• The complete list of units
• A list of classes for each semester  
• A timeline of the PhD process

MATH+ Fridays – Kovalevskaya Colloquium Each semester, MATH+ designates one of the MATH+ Friday colloquia as the Sonia Kovalevskaya Colloquium . This lecture features female mathematicians who are invited to share their experiences as women in the field of mathematics. The lecture is preceded by an informal lunch for female students. This gives female students the opportunity to talk to an outstanding female mathematician about career paths and to exchange information about their experiences.

Mentoring The BMS mentoring programme was developed to provide individual guidance to BMS students in both their academic and personal development.

Soft Skills Seminars The BMS offers soft skills seminars in order to help students develop the necessary skills for a career in mathematics, in academia or in the private sector.

Support for Students with Children BMS provides additional support for students with children and students who are pregnant.

• International guest lecturers
• Language training provided
• Training in intercultural skills
• Study trips

MATH+ Fridays The MATH+ Friday colloquium (MATH+ Friday) is a lecture series given by distinguished mathematicians from all over the world. Each speaker explains how their research fits into the mathematical landscape in general, remarks on open problems, and demonstrates applications and analogies in other fields of mathematics and beyond. The aim is to offer a broad overview of a specific research area to enable everyone in the audience to grasp the main concepts involved.

Phase I students can participate in the exchange programmes offered by Freie Universität Berlin (FU) , Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU) or Technische Universität Berlin (TU) . Research visits can be arranged individually for Phase II students.

There are teaching opportunities at all three participating universities. Depending on language skills and mathematical background, teaching experience can be gained as a tutor in undergraduate or graduate courses.

• DFG (e.g. Research Training Groups)

FU Berlin: 237.89 EUR HU Berlin: 240.64 EUR TU Berlin: 231.89 EUR

Please have a look at our BMS Guidebook, chapter 5.7 "Cost of Living" (page 32) at: http://www.math-berlin.de/images/guidebook.pdf

The BMS offers scholarships for both Phase I and Phase II students. Scholarships are funded under the "Excellence Strategy" of the German Science Foundation, DFG, and by the three Berlin universities: FU Berlin, HU Berlin and TU Berlin. Phase I scholarships are usually granted for 18 months (extendable by six months), and amount to 1,000 EUR per month, tax free (no insurances included). Phase II scholarships are typically granted for 24 months (extendable by 12 months), and usually amount to 1,600 EUR, tax free (no insurances included). For further information, go to: https://www.math-berlin.de/students/scholarships Extra childcare funds are reserved for BMS students with children. For further information, please see: https://www.math-berlin.de/students/resources/for-student-parents

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in mathematics (or equivalent) for Phase I , Master's degree (or equivalent) in mathematics (or equivalent) for Phase II

Application information

First, download our BMS PhD application guidelines and read them thoroughly before beginning the online application process.

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills with one of the following certificates:

• TOEFL minimum of 550 (paper-based test), 213 (computer-based), 79 (Internet-based)
• IELTS minimum of 6.5
• CPE minimum level C
• CAE minimum level C

https://www.math-berlin.de/application/faqs/standard-tests

BMS online application portal

TU Berlin FU Berlin HU Berlin

Due to various factors, including the increasing number of immigrants, international students, as well as the increase in mobility of the population in general, the housing situation in Berlin has become very competitive. Since there is no campus accommodation in Berlin, we recommend beginning your search for private accommodation as early as possible!

Affordable accommodation will relieve the strain on a student budget enormously. Rent is the largest monthly expense for students, on average about 450 EUR per month for a single room. However, the amount of rent depends mainly on the type of accommodation and where it is located.

Student Accommodation for BMS Students Each year, ten rooms in the student village “ Studentendorf Schlachtensee ” are offered exclusively to new BMS students. Each room is fully furnished with a bed, bedlinen, cupboards, shelves, a desk and a chair. Shared bathrooms and kitchens are fully equipped. Available on-site is a free gym, music rooms, study rooms, a launderette, a supermarket and a student-run bar. The rental period is fixed for one year and starts on 1 September and ends on 31 August. This offer is available on a "first come, first serve" basis.

For more information, please have a look at our BMS Guidebook , chapter 5.6 "Accommodation" (from page 24 to 26).

Students who receive DAAD scholarships can apply for student accommodation via the DAAD .

FU Berlin:  http://www.fu-berlin.de/en/sites/career/index.html HU Berlin: https://www.hu-berlin.de/de/career-center TU Berlin:  https://www.tu.berlin/en/careerservice/services/

Once a year, the BMS offers a "Meet the BMS Alumni" event or a "Career Day" for our BMS students.

• Buddy programme
• Welcome event
• Cultural and linguistic preparation

The One-Stop Office supports BMS students in various administrative issues ranging from travel, visa, housing, and bureaucratic issues to language courses, child care, and music and sports opportunities. In September, around four weeks before the first semester begins, the BMS offers a German as a Foreign Language course to support those international students with little or no German language skills. In October, one week before the winter semester lectures begin, the "BMS Orientation" takes place. This five-day schedule of activities is designed to welcome new students to the BMS and to provide an opportunity for the One-Stop Office staff to offer them assistance with university registration. It also aims to provide the new students with the opportunity to learn about their new place of study and for them to get to know the other students. Orientation activities also include intercultural training and a walking tour of Berlin.

Technische Universität Berlin

Information about the three Berlin universities FU, HU & TU:

The FU Berlin has approximately 33,500 undergraduate students in 173 degree programmes (as of winter semester 2022/23). Of these, 13% of students in Bachelor's degree programmes and 29% of students in Master's degree programmes come from outside Germany, as do 38% of its 4,000 doctoral students (as of 2022). The university is made up of eleven departments, one joint medical school with HU Berlin and three central institutes. Most of its facilities are located in the leafy residential district of Dahlem, south-west of Berlin. Institute of Mathematics

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU Berlin) , founded in 1810 by the liberal Prussian educational reformer and linguist Wilhelm von Humboldt, is Berlin's oldest university. The foundation concept put forward by Humboldt envisaged a "universitas litterarum", which would achieve a unity of teaching and research as well as provide students with an all-round humanist education. Today HU Berlin is a public university offering more than 170 degree courses to over 36,500 students (excluding Charité), 58% of whom are female students and 15% of whom are international (as of winter semester 2022/23). The university is made up of nine faculties, five central institutes, five central units and nine interdisciplinary centres. The natural science institutes of the HU are located at Adlershof in the south of Berlin. Institute of Mathematics

Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin) was founded in 1879 as the result of a merger between the School of Architecture (est. 1799) and the Academy of Trade (est. 1821). It was closed at the end of World War II and re-established under its current name in 1946. Although it was Germany's first technical university, its educational mission was reallocated post-WWII to include an emphasis on "universal education". By including the humanities in its compendium of subjects, the TU became the first technical university in Germany to present a humanistic element in its scholastic profile. TU Berlin has approximately 35,000 students, 34% of whom are female and 28% of whom are international (as of winter semester 2022/23). The seven faculties offer more than 100 degree courses, and the main campus is located in the district of Charlottenburg. Institute of Mathematics

University location

Berlin is Germany's capital city and a major centre of European politics, culture, media and science. It also serves as a continental hub for air and rail transport. The city's economy is primarily based on the service sector, which encompasses a diverse range of creative industries, media corporations, environmental services, congress, and convention venues.

Berlin is the third most visited tourist destination in the EU and home to world-renowned universities, research institutes, sporting events, orchestras, museums and media personalities. Its urban landscape and historical legacy have also made it a popular setting for international film productions. Recognised for its festivals, contemporary architecture, nightlife and avant-garde arts, Berlin has evolved into a focal point for individuals attracted by its liberal lifestyle, modern "zeitgeist" and low-cost living. It is home to 3.7 million people from over 190 countries.

First documented in the 13th century, Berlin was successively the capital of the Kingdom of Prussia (1701-1918), the German empire (1871-1918), the Weimar Republic (1919-1932) and the Third Reich (1933-1945). After World War II the city was divided: East Berlin became the capital of the GDR (East Germany) while West Berlin remained a West German enclave surrounded by the Berlin Wall from 1961-1989. It was possible for people from the west to go to the east, but only through strictly controlled checkpoints. For most East Germans, travel to West Berlin or West Germany was no longer possible. In 1971, the “Four Power Agreement on Berlin” (drawn up by the wartime allies France, UK, USA and USSR) re-established ties between the two parts of Berlin, improved travel and communications, and brought numerous improvements for the residents of the Western Sectors.

In 1989, pressure from the East German population brought the transition to a parliamentary democracy in East Germany. When the Berlin Wall fell on 9 November 1989, its citizens gained free access to the west. In Friedrichshain, a 1.3 km stretch of the Berlin Wall, known as the East Side Gallery, has been preserved as an international memorial for freedom. On 3 October 1990, East and West Germany reunited and became the Federal Republic of Germany. Berlin became the German capital in accordance with the unification treaty. The German parliament and government moved from Bonn back to Berlin in 1999.

Berlin is divided into twelve districts (Bezirke), each district is subdivided into a number of sub-districts (Ortsteile), and Berlin consists of 95 such sub-districts. In the past these areas were independent towns, villages and rural communities, and some of the subdistricts in Berlin are now known as a “Kiez”. A term with a positive connotation, the word is of Slavonic origin and refers to a settlement. Its inhabitants often identify with the “Kiez” they live in. A Berliner “Kiez” usually consists mainly of pre-war buildings and upholds its own commercial and cultural infrastructure. Some of the more well-known ones are the “Akazienkiez” in Schöneberg, the “Körnerkiez” in Neukölln and the “Kollwitzkiez” in Prenzlauer Berg.

Berlin Tourist Information City Information in English

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Mathematical Sciences

For students interested in research, the MSc degree provides the opportunity to start a PhD research project in any of the related topics at a university in the Netherlands or abroad. Such positions are regularly available within Utrecht University. There are ample contacts with other universities as well, partly through the nationwide Dutch research school SIKS (School for Knowledge and Information Systems). Some positions are sponsored by companies or the Dutch research council. Graduates may also find challenging positions in R&D departments of international companies, governments, and the banking and insurance sectors.

Doing a PhD

If you have completed your Master's programme, and you are enthusiastic about doing research in your field, then maybe doing a Doctorate (PhD) will interest you. A Doctor’s degree is the highest academic degree awarded by a Dutch university. You start as 'assistant in training' (aio) or 'researcher in training' (oio).

At Utrecht University

At Utrecht University you take part in education in one of the Graduate Schools and often also teach students. During the four-year PhD programme you work under the guidance of a professor on creating a research project that results in a dissertation or a series of articles in scientific journals. You can search for positions on research projects on offer or a position whereby you are free to submit your own research proposal. Read more on doing a  PhD  at Utrecht University. 

Other options

The best way to find a PhD position is through networking with the professor in the field you wish to specialize. Another option is to search via  www.academictransfer.nl . Here you can also find more information on doing PhD research in the Netherlands. 

Follow Utrecht University

Utrecht University Heidelberglaan 8 3584 CS Utrecht The Netherlands Tel. +31 (0)30 253 35 50

Best Universities for Mathematics in Europe

Updated: February 29, 2024

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• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Europe ranked based on their research performance in Mathematics. A graph of 130M citations received by 5.42M academic papers made by 1,388 universities in Europe was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University College London

For Mathematics

2. University of Oxford

3. University of Cambridge

4. Imperial College London

5. Catholic University of Leuven

6. University of Manchester

7. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich

8. University of Amsterdam

9. University of Bristol

10. University of Edinburgh

11. Karolinska Institute

12. Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne

13. Pierre and Marie Curie University

14. Lund University

15. Delft University of Technology

16. University of Copenhagen

17. Technical University of Munich

18. King's College London

19. University of Southampton

20. Utrecht University

21. Heidelberg University - Germany

22. Radboud University

23. Sapienza University of Rome

24. University of Groningen

25. University of Sheffield

26. University of Helsinki

27. Uppsala University

28. University of Nottingham

29. University of Birmingham

30. University of Bologna

31. University of Padua

32. Erasmus University Rotterdam

33. University of Glasgow

34. Aarhus University

35. University of Oslo

36. University of Leeds

37. Ghent University

38. University of Warwick

39. RWTH Aachen University

40. University of Liverpool

41. Polytechnic University of Milan

42. University of York

43. University of Munich

44. Eindhoven University of Technology

45. Vienna University of Technology

46. Norwegian University of Science and Technology

47. KTH Royal Institute of Technology

48. University of Zurich

49. University of Barcelona

50. University of Milan

51. University of Hamburg

52. Newcastle University

53. Technical University of Denmark

54. Technical University of Catalonia

55. Maastricht University

56. Free University Amsterdam

57. London School of Economics and Political Science

58. Linkoping University

59. University of Vienna

60. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

61. University of Gothenburg

62. University of Bern

63. University of Erlangen Nuremberg

64. Leiden University

65. Polytechnic University of Turin

66. Catholic University of Louvain

67. Claude Bernard University Lyon 1

68. Queen Mary University of London

69. Aalborg University

70. University of Lisbon

71. University of Granada

72. University of Twente

73. University of Pisa

74. University of Bonn

75. National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

76. Lancaster University

77. Umea University

78. University of Bergen

79. University of London

80. Chalmers University of Technology

81. Polytechnic University of Bari

82. Autonomous University of Barcelona

83. University of Florence

84. University of Stuttgart

85. Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

86. University of Oulu

87. Stockholm University

88. Goethe University of Frankfurt am Main

89. Technical University of Berlin

90. Paris-Sud University

91. University of Leicester

92. Cardiff University

93. University of Freiburg

94. Federico II University of Naples

95. Moscow State University

96. University of Porto

97. University of Geneva

98. Ruhr University Bochum

99. University of Tampere

100. National Technical University of Athens

Mathematics subfields in Europe

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PhD Position in Mathematics

for an ambitious PhD candidate in mathematics . Your research is part of the Algebra, Geometry and mathematical physics group . You will be joining the project from classical to noncommutative symmetries. The goal

Are you passionate about doing research in mathematics ? The Korteweg-de Vries Institute for Mathematics  is looking for an ambitious PhD candidate in mathematics . Your research is part of

PhD student in mathematics /applied mathematics

opportunity for mathematics enthusiasts to take part in a dynamic environment in mathematics , including applied areas such as finance and engineering. We are now looking for five to six PhD students in

PhD position in Mathematics focusing on geometric deep learning

programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description The Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics is opening a PhD position in mathematics , within

PhD studentship in Mathematical Biology

18 Apr 2024 Job Information Organisation/Company University of Montpellier Research Field Mathematics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Country France Application Deadline 12 May 2024

The Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics is opening a PhD position in mathematics , within the WASP AI program, focusing on geometric deep learning. The position covers four years

PhD positions in mathematical statistics at Stockholm University

related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description The Department of Mathematics at Stockholm University invites applications for two PhD student positions in mathematical

PhD student in Neuro-symbolic AI for Mathematical Discovery

finish) a MSc degree in e.g. Computer Science, AI, mathematics or other relevant fields. To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education

The goal of this project is to develop new methods for assisting mathematical discovery, by leveraging recent developments in generative AI (large language models) with symbolic systems (here proof

Mathematical and numerical models of piezoelectric wave energy converters (MPhil or PhD scholarship)

Application dates Applications close30 September 2024 What you'll receive You'll receive a stipend scholarship of $32,192 per annum for a maximum duration of 3 years while undertaking a QUT PhD

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EMS Magazine No.131 out now!

Richard Elwes

The latest version of the EMS Magazine, edition no 131 for March 2024, is out now! Link here and via the magazine tab on the EMS webpage.

Call for bids to organise the next EMS-IAMP Summer School in Mathematical Physics

The call is open to submit bids for the next summer school in mathematical physics funded by the International Association of Mathematical Physics (IAMP) and EMS.

Michel Talagrand wins 2024 Abel Prize

The EMS congratulates Michel Talagrand (of CNRS) winner of the 2024 Abel Prize "for his groundbreaking contributions to probability theory and functional analysis, with outstanding applications in mathematical physics and statistics"!

Click through (link) for the full citation and accessible accounts of the laureate's work.

EMS Women in Mathematics Day 2024

The Women in Math Committee (WiM) of the European Mathematical Society is organising an online event "EMS/WiM Day" on 17th May 2024, within the broader initiative of "May 12th", a celebration of women in Mathematics in memory of Maryam Mirzakhani.

European Mathematical Society

The European Mathematical Society is the learned society for mathematicians throughout Europe. It promotes the development of all aspects of mathematics in Europe, in particular mathematical research, relations of mathematics to society, relations to European institutions, and mathematics education. The EMS is a not-for-profit organisation with memberships of around 60 national mathematical societies in Europe, 50 mathematical research centres and departments, and 3000 individuals.

EMS Press is the publishing house of the European Mathematical Society, the not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of mathematics in Europe. We have a digital and print portfolio of more than 20 peer-reviewed journals and a growing catalogue of over 200 books. Our editorial mission is to publish high-quality research for both the European and global mathematics community. We focus on technology-driven solutions for academic publishing, and are committed to delivering fair and sustainable open access.

Partners of the EMS

PhD Program Mathematics

mathematics, fundamental mathematics, applied mathematics, funding, phd, program

Objectives :

The doctoral studies at Université Paris-Saclay encompass the full mathematical spectrum, from most fundamental aspects (algebra, analysis, geometry, probability) to applications in various sciences (physics, biology) and industry motivated problems (Artificial Intelligence, scientific computing, finance..).

Prerequisite :

Applicants to a PhD must have obtained (at the time of registration) a Master in Sciences (or an equivalent diploma), preferably with a large component in mathematics, especially if their PhD project is in fundamental mathematics. The applicants should either directly contact a PhD advisor to discuss about a PhD project in common (« candidature spontanée »), or they can apply to a PhD project advertised on the ADUM website ; in this latter case, it is strongly advised to contact the PhD advisor before applying. 

Eligibility :

Learn more about my eligibility and each doctoral school's deadline  here: https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr/en/phd-program-mathematics-graduate-school-mathematics

Find the proposed thesis topics here :  https://www.adum.fr/psaclay/ptenpb?etab=306

Organisation

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The responsibility for the funding offers published on this website, including the funding description, lies entirely with the publishing institutions. The application is handled uniquely by the employer, who is also fully responsible for the recruitment and selection processes.

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Found 23 PhD jobs

Principal investigator in modeling of plant stress responses.

• Umeå (Kommun), Västerbotten (SE)
• Competitive
• Umeå Plant Science Centre and Integrated Science Lab

Join our multidisciplinary and stimulative research environment as Associate Professor in Modeling of Plant Stress Responses

View details Principal Investigator in Modeling of Plant Stress Responses

• 33 days ago
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Group Leader at Católica Biomedical Research Centre and Assistant or Associate Professor at Católica

• Portugal (PT)
• Commensurate with experience and merit and adhering to institutional norms/national legislation
• Católica Biomedical Research Centre

Group Leader + Assistant/Associate Professor, tenure-track position in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Data Science, Engineering, related fields.

View details Group Leader at Católica Biomedical Research Centre and Assistant or Associate Professor at Católica

• 17 days ago
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Expression of Interest – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions – Postdoctoral Fellowships 2024 (MSCA-PF)

• France (FR)
• not relevant
• Plateforme projets européens (2PE) -Bretagne

Academic institutions in Brittany are looking for excellent postdoctoral researchers willing to apply for a Marie S. Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship.

View details Expression of Interest – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions – Postdoctoral Fellowships 2024 (MSCA-PF)

• 7 days left
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Senior Scientist in Automation (10326)

• Harwell, Didcot
• £42,500 - £52,500 per annum
• The Rosalind Franklin Institute

The Rosalind Franklin Institute is a national research centre, funded by the UK government through UK Research and Innovation, dedicated to bringin...

View details Senior Scientist in Automation (10326)

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Postdoctoral Theoretical Plasma Physicist (m/f/div)

• Garching bei München, Bayern (DE)
• Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (MPI-IPP)

The Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physicsoffers within the research unit MHD a position for a Postdoctoral Theoretical Plasma Physicist (m/f/div).

View details Postdoctoral Theoretical Plasma Physicist (m/f/div)

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Associate professor and/or assistant professor in epidemiology (molecular or general), biostatist...

• Odense, Fyn (DK)
• University of Southern Denmark (SDU)

Can you explain variations in health, aging, and lifespan?

View details Associate professor and/or assistant professor in epidemiology (molecular or general), biostatist...

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Bioinformatics Scientist

• Milan City (IT)
• We offer a co.co.co contract, salary commensurate with skills and working experience
• IFOM ETS - The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology

Our research aims at finding new therapeutic opportunities for colorectal cancer patients

View details Bioinformatics Scientist

• 14 days ago
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• 15 days ago

M-2469 – POST DOC IN MODELLING, SIMULATION, AND DESIGN FOR OPTIMAL PULTRUSION PROCESS

• BASED ON EXPERIENCE
• Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST)

Temporary contract | 24 months | Hautcharage Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join usThe Luxembourg Institute of Science and Tec

View details M-2469 – POST DOC IN MODELLING, SIMULATION, AND DESIGN FOR OPTIMAL PULTRUSION PROCESS

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NOMIS-ISTA Fellowship Program

• Austria (AT)
• min 69,000 €/year
• Institute of Science and Technology Austria

Call for proposals The NOMIS Foundation and the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) have launched an interdisciplinary basic researc...

View details NOMIS-ISTA Fellowship Program

• 20 days ago
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Postdoc in Smart Traverse for Mobile Robotics

• Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT), University of Luxembourg

About the SnT...SnT is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services. We play an

View details Postdoc in Smart Traverse for Mobile Robotics

• 23 days ago
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Postdoc position in Software Engineering or Computer Science

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Postdoc Computer Vision-based Anomaly Detection

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Postdoc in Computer Vision for Remote Sensing Applications

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Postdoc in Information Systems Engineering

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Postdoctoral Researcher/Research Associate (x2), (University of Galway 108-24)

• Galway (City), Connacht (IE)
• University of Galway (NUI Galway)

Applications are invited from two suitably qualified candidates for full-time fixed-term positions as Postdoctoral Researchers/Research Associates ...

View details Postdoctoral Researcher/Research Associate (x2), (University of Galway 108-24)

• 5 days left
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Postdoc Fellow in (post) quantum security of proof systems

• University of Luxembourg

The University | About us...The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary

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Max Planck Research Group Leader (m/f/div) at the Interface between Physics and Medical Research

• Erlangen, Bayern (DE)
• Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light

We are searching for a Max Planck Research Group Leader at the newly established Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin (MPZPM) in Erlangen, German

View details Max Planck Research Group Leader (m/f/div) at the Interface between Physics and Medical Research

• 41 days ago
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Postdoctoral researcher in mathematics

• Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg

View details Postdoctoral researcher in mathematics

• 43 days ago
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Senior Professorship in the School of Theoretical Physics

• Dublin, Leinster (IE)
• See job particulars document attached to job advertisement.
• Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies

High calibre scientist with established international research reputation to lead innovative research program in any area of theoretical physics.

View details Senior Professorship in the School of Theoretical Physics

• 45 days ago
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• The Graduate School >
• Graduate News >
• New algorithm cuts through ‘noisy’ data to better predict tipping points

New algorithm cuts through ‘noisy’ data to better predict tipping points

Naoki Masuda, professor of mathematics, is the lead author of a study that identifies the best data points for prediciting tipping points across various systems. Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki/University at Buffalo

UB mathematicians’ theory determines which data points matter most when calculating early warning signals

By Tom Dinki

Release Date: April 26, 2024

Naoki Masuda

Neil MacLaren

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Whether you’re trying to predict a climate catastrophe or mental health crisis, mathematics tells us to look for fluctuations. 

Changes in data, from wildlife population to anxiety levels, can be an early warning signal that a system is reaching a critical threshold, known as a tipping point, in which those changes may accelerate or even become irreversible. 

But which data points matter most? And which are simply just noise?

A new algorithm developed by University at Buffalo researchers can identify the most predictive data points that a tipping point is near. Detailed in Nature Communications , this theoretical framework uses the power of stochastic differential equations to observe the fluctuation of data points, or nodes, and then determine which should be used to calculate an early warning signal. 

Simulations confirmed this method was more accurate at predicting theoretical tipping points than randomly selecting nodes.

“Every node is somewhat noisy — in other words, it changes over time — but some may change earlier and more drastically than others when a tipping point is near. Selecting the right set of nodes may improve the quality of the early warning signal, as well as help us avoid wasting resources observing uninformative nodes,” says the study’s lead author, Naoki Masuda, PhD, professor and director of graduate studies in the UB Department of Mathematics, within the College of Arts and Sciences.

The study was co-authored by Neil MacLaren, Phd, a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Mathematics, and Kazuyuki Aihara, PhD, executive director of the International Research Center for Neurointelligence at the University of Tokyo. 

The work was supported by the National Science Foundation and the Japan Science and Technology Agency.

Warning signals connected via networks

The algorithm is unique in that it fully incorporates network science into the process. While early warning signals have been applied to ecology and psychology for the last two decades, little research has focused on how those signals are connected within a network, Masuda says. 

Consider depression. Recent research has considered it and other mental disorders as a network of symptoms influencing each other by creating feedback loops. A loss of appetite could mean the onset of five other symptoms in the near future, depending on how close those symptoms are on the network.

“As a network scientist, I felt network science could offer a unique or perhaps even improved approach to early warning signals,” Masuda says. 

By thoroughly considering systems as networks, researchers found that simply selecting the nodes with highest fluctuations was not the best strategy. That’s because some selected nodes may be too closely related to other selected nodes.

“Even if we combine two nodes with nice early warning signals, we don’t necessarily get a more accurate signal. Sometimes combining a node with a good signal and another node with a mid-quality signal actually gives us a better signal,” Masuda says. 

While the team validated the algorithm with numerical simulations, they say it can readily be applied to actual data because it does not require information about the network structure itself; it only requires two different states of the networked system to determine an optimal set of nodes. 

“The next steps will be to collaborate with domain experts such as ecologists, climate scientists and medical doctors to further develop and test the algorithm with their empirical data and get insights into their problems,” Masuda says.

Media Contact Information

Tom Dinki News Content Manager Physical sciences, economic development Tel: 716-645-4584 [email protected]

College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

News & events, fifteen nsm faculty and two graduate students honored with uh faculty excellence and research excellence awards.

April 26, 2024

Awards Include UH’s Highest Faculty Honor - the Esther Farfel Award – Moores Professorships and Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Research

Congratulations to the 15 College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics faculty members and two graduate students recognized for excellence in teaching, mentoring, scholarship and research. These exceptional faculty members and students were honored at the 2024 Faculty Excellence Awards celebration on April 25.

The awards are among the highest honors bestowed by the University of Houston.

“The 17 individuals recognized represent the best in teaching, research and mentorship,” said Dan E. Wells, NSM dean. “Their efforts are making a tremendous difference in the lives and career paths of our students.”

Esther Farfel Award – Zhifeng Ren

Zhifeng Ren , Paul C. W. Chu and May P. Chern Endowed Chair in Condensed Matter Physics, received the Esther Farfel Award, the highest honor accorded to a University faculty member. The award is a symbol of overall career excellence. Recipients are chosen for the significance and national/international impact of their research or creative activity, outstanding teaching ability, and distinctive and exemplary service to the University, the profession and the community. The award carries a cash prize of $10,000.

Moores Professorships

Mini Das , Physics Seema Khurana , Biology & Biochemistry This five-year, renewable professorship is given to faculty in recognition of outstanding teaching, research and service.

Teaching Excellence Awards

Distinguished leadership in teaching excellence.

Donna Pattison , Biology & Biochemistry This award is given in recognition of faculty who have made sustained and significant contributions to education within the context of their responsibilities as a full-time faculty member.

Teaching Excellence

Chin-Yo Lin , Biology & Biochemistry, CNRCS This award is given to faculty in recognition of outstanding achievements in teaching.

Teaching Excellence – Provost Core

Ann Cheek , Biology & Biochemistry Tai-Yen Chen , Chemistry This award is given to faculty who have demonstrated outstanding teaching in undergraduate core curriculum courses.

Teaching Excellence – Instructor/Clinical

Cathy Poliak , Mathematics This award is given in recognition of outstanding teaching by faculty instructors, clinical faculty, research faculty, artist affiliates and lecturers.

Teaching Excellence – Graduate Teaching Assistant

Lukasz Krzywon , Mathematics Elliot Lagueux , Biology & Biochemistry This award is given to graduate students who have demonstrated excellence in teaching.

Teaching Excellence – Group Teaching

Paige Evans , teach HOUSTON-Mathematics Jacqueline Ekeoba , teach HOUSTON-Mathematics Ramona Mateer , teach HOUSTON-Mathematics Rachel Glenn , teach HOUSTON-Mathematics This award recognizes faculty who demonstrate a strong commitment to teaching and student success, who have worked together collaboratively to improve student outcomes.

Undergraduate Research Mentor

Melissa Zastrow , Chemistry This award acknowledges faculty who are making a significant impact in their field by supporting and mentoring undergraduate students in research and scholarship endeavors and who have demonstrated at least five years of mentorship involvement.

Awards for Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity

Research excellence – professor.

Gopal Pandurangan , Computer Science This award recognizes faculty who have a substantial continuing record of outstanding research, scholarship and creative activities.

Research Excellence – Assistant Professor

Weiyi Peng , Biology & Biochemistry, CNRCS This award recognizes faculty who have demonstrated great potential in research, scholarship and creative endeavors by virtue of the exceptional quality of their early contributions.

- Kathy Major, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics