MPhil/PhD Mathematics

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Staff in the School of Mathematics and Physics conduct cutting-edge research in fundamental and applied mathematics and physics, ranging from pure mathematics to applied nano-science at the interface between biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The School collaborates with top research institutions in Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, and the USA.

Students are supported and encouraged to submit papers to international scientific journals, present findings at conferences, and share knowledge with colleagues across the University.

Key Information

Full-time

• MPhil: 1.5-3 years.
• Ph.D.: 2-4 years

Part-time

• MPhil: 2-4 years.
• PhD: 3-6 years

"This information was correct at the time of publishing (July 2023)"

How You Study

Students can benefit from specialist computational facilities, training programmes to enhance research skills, and support from dedicated academic supervisors. Students will be supported and encouraged to submit papers to international scientific journals, present their findings at conferences, and share knowledge with colleagues across the University.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, students will spend the majority of their time in independent study and research. Students will meet with their academic supervisor, however, the regularity of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of their programme.

Research Areas and Topics

Staff in the School of Mathematics and Physics conduct leading research in fundamental and applied mathematics and physics, ranging from pure mathematics to applied nanoscience at the interface between biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The School collaborates with top research institutions in Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, and the USA.

The key to success in a postgraduate research programme is to find a research topic that you are passionate about and identify a supervisory team that has expertise in this area. The first thing that all prospective students should do is directly contact a member of staff from one of these areas that you feel is best aligned with your chosen research area to discuss the application process further.

How You Are Assessed

A PhD is usually awarded based on the quality of the student's thesis and ability to present and successfully defend their chosen research topic in an oral examination (viva voce). They are also expected to demonstrate how their research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theories or understanding.

A doctoral qualification can be the capstone of academic achievement and often marks the beginning of a career in academia or research. A research programme provides the opportunity to become a true expert in your chosen field, while developing a range of valuable transferable skills that can support your career progression. A research-based degree is also the most direct pathway to an academic career. PhDs and research degrees are a great chance to expand your network and meet diverse people with similar interests, knowledge, and passion.

The University’s Doctoral School provides a focal point for Lincoln’s community of researchers, where ideas and experiences can be developed and shared across disciplines. It also offers support and training to help equip you for both academic and non-academic careers.