Maths and Cryptography Students Ref. 920

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Maths & Cryptography
Cheltenham
£19,861 pro rata

Maths and Cryptography – Solving the unsolvable

GCHQ offers a nine week, paid summer placement for mathematics undergraduates, based at our site in Cheltenham.  Students work in small groups, supported by our full time employees, on projects which are of real, operational interest.  These come from all corners of the organisation and require the application of many different areas of maths.  Past problems have included assessing cryptographic algorithms, analysing complex datasets, developing new statistical tools and researching various areas of maths to ensure that British Government communications are secure.
GCHQ offers a unique working environment for mathematicians, providing the opportunity to undertake advanced mathematical research and solve challenging real world problems.  Our work covers a wide range of mathematical disciplines including algebra, number theory, statistics, combinatorics, numerical analysis and many more.  This Summer Student Scheme gives undergraduate maths students the chance to experience and contribute to our work.

Applicants must be current undergraduates studying for their first degree (Bachelors, Masters or equivalent) in mathematics or a Joint Honours subject with mathematics as the main component. By summer 2017, students must have completed a minimum of three years of their degree (or equivalent for part-time courses) and should be on track to achieve a 1st Class Honours qualification at the end of their degree.

All of the projects will involve some level of programming.  Programming experience is not necessary for acceptance onto the scheme, but please do describe any on your application.  If you do not have prior experience then we will be able to offer advice on possible ways to develop before the beginning of the placement.


Application process:  

Application form includes these questions:

•    University and degree
•    Subjects studied during each year of degree
•    Details of any programming experience
•    Details of any mathematical projects or papers
•    Work Experience

Assessment will be by preference sift of applications and interview.  

After an initial eligibility and preference sift, successful candidates will be invited to interview in Gloucester.  The interview will be one hour long, with an equal balance between mathematical topics and competency questions.  In the mathematics section you will be asked to work through some unseen problems and will also be required to give a 5 minute presentation on a mathematical topic of your choice.  There will be no IT available for the presentation.

Closing date:  14th November 2016

Interview dates: 28th November – 2nd December

This Program / Vacancy is closed to applications.