Program Overview

PhD in Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics

Overview

The PhD in Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics is a three to four-year program that culminates in the submission and examination of a single research thesis. Students typically have completed prior study at a level comparable to the Part III (MMath/MASt) course and may have postgraduate experience. They begin their PhD research with a good understanding of advanced material, which they build upon throughout their studies.

Structure of the PhD

• Students are required to undertake a minimum of nine full-time terms of research (i.e., three years).
• Students are not registered for the PhD initially but are admitted on a probationary basis.
• All students are assessed for registration in their fourth term based on a written report of 15 to 20 pages and a discussion of their work with two assessors.

Research Areas

Research in the Department of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics (DPMMS) can be divided into the following broad areas:

• Algebra
• Algebraic Geometry
• Analysis and Partial Differential Equations
• Combinatorics
• Differential Geometry and Topology
• Foundations
• Number Theory
• Information and Finance
• Probability
• Statistics The boundaries between these areas are not rigid, and staff may contribute to more than one area.

Additional Training and Opportunities

• Whilst there are no mandatory taught components to the PhD degree, students may undertake specific courses or further training to expand their knowledge.
• All students are encouraged to participate in and attend the wide range of lectures, seminars, and events on offer within DPMMS and the Centre for Mathematical Sciences.
• The department intends for students to publish their work in leading journals, with many PhD students writing several papers before submitting their thesis.
• DPMMS promotes and encourages researcher development and transferable skills training, which can include assisting with Part III preparatory workshops, attending skills-based training sessions, or presenting work at seminars and conferences.
• The University also offers training via the Researcher Development Programme.
• There is no requirement for PhD students to teach, but opportunities are available, such as offering supervisions for third-year undergraduates or helping with running examples classes for Part III students.

Key Information

• Duration: 3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time
• Study Mode: Research
• Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
• Department: Department of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics
• Course-Related Enquiries: (Removed as per instructions)
• Application-Related Enquiries: (Removed as per instructions)

Dates and Deadlines

• Applications Open: September 3, 2025
• Application Deadline: May 14, 2026
• Course Starts: October 1, 2026
• Funding Deadlines:
  • Course Funding Deadline: January 7, 2026
  • Gates Cambridge US round only: October 15, 2025

Similar Courses

• Mathematics MPhil
• Mathematics (Pure Mathematics) MASt
• Mathematics (Mathematical Statistics) MASt
• Mathematics (Theoretical Physics) MASt
• Mathematics (Applied Mathematics) MASt