Count me in: Research experiences for UK undergraduates in algebra, geometry, and topology

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Do you enjoy thinking about mathematics and solving problems?  Have you ever wondered what it is like to research mathematics?

Count Me In is a 6-week cohort-based research internship in Edinburgh for aspiring undergraduate students of mathematics.

Our aim is to show women and non-binary people, members of under-represented ethnic minorities in mathematics, people from a challenging socioeconomic background and  people with a disability, what it is like to do mathematics research.  We aim to create an experience which is inclusive and relaxed, where student researchers can focus on the joy of mathematical creativity and discovery in a supportive and stimulating environment, alongside a cohort of peers and mentors.  We will emphasize collaboration and learning over competition and performance.

How will this work, exactly?

• We are planning for a cohort of 8-10 students, who will all live in Edinburgh during a six-week period 17 June - 26 July, 2024.

• We will arrange for problems in the areas of algebra, geometry, and topology.

• We will group 2-4 undergraduate researchers together to work on a common mathematical research problem, with the support of a PhD student mentor in Edinburgh, and with a more senior research supervisor based somewhere in the UK.  Students will meet regularly, in-person with their Ph.D. mentors and via Zoom with their research supervisor.

• In addition to the research problems, we'll provide a range of academic and social activities bringing all students together.

• Participants will be paid a living wage of £1800 for the six weeks.  PhD mentors will also be paid a stipend to support their participation.

• We can offer students subsidized accomodation in University of Edinburgh shared apartments, at £800 for the entire six weeks.  Each student will have their own bedroom and shared living space.  Alternatively, students may find their own accommodation in Edinburgh.

Public events this summer

About us

Count Me In is being organised by Milena Hering, David Jordan, and Nick Sheridan.  We are grateful for the financial support from the International Centre for Mathematical Sciences (ICMS) and the University of Edinburgh School of Mathematics.