MSRC Summer Studentships 2024

Overview:

The QUB Mathematical Sciences Research Centre (MSRC) is offering 1-2 paid summer internships in algebra, combinatorics, number theory, or a related area of pure mathematics, under the supervision of Dr Sean Eberhard. This opportunity is tailored for students seeking to gain insights into fundamental science research and considering a potential future in a PhD program. Projects are expected to last 6-8 weeks and will involve regular meetings with the supervisor and postdoctoral staff. Outputs may include a written report and an oral presentation.

Eligibility:

Open to undergraduate students. Preference given to those who have completed three years of a four-year MSci degree or equivalent. Applications accepted from both QUB and other university students on comparable degree courses.

Example Projects:

• Strongly regular graphs and optimization
• Mathematics of card shuffling for specific games
• Product-free subsets of the unit interval [0,1]
• Density of the Hofstadter sequence

Timing and Duration:

Studentships will run for 6-8 weeks between 3 June 2024, and 13 September 2024, exact start and end dates to be mutually agreed between the student and supervisor.

Student Support:

A stipend of £2,000 is available for an 8-week full-time project. Students will have access to desk space in either the Main Physics Building or the Old Physics Building. Applications for working on a remote/virtual basis will also be considered. No support is provided for accommodation or travel.

How to Apply:

Send your cover letter and CV to s.eberhard@qub.ac.uk by 29 March 2024. Include a list of undergraduate courses and results, your mathematical interests, and future plans. You may propose a research topic within algebra, combinatorics, or number theory if desired. Please also specify your ideal start and end dates.

Selection Criteria:

Selection based on academic excellence and potential, with priority given to those planning to apply for a PhD program. Preference for applicants who have completed three years of study in a four-year MSci degree or equivalent. Applicants should have the right to study in the UK.

Further Information:

For more details about the studentship scheme, contact Dr Sean Eberhard (s.eberhard@qub.ac.uk). For administration/eligibility queries, contact the School research office (mp.research@qub.ac.uk).