The School of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of St Andrews is seeking to hire a 3-year Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on the EPSRC project "Applications of symplectic geometry to algebra". The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment within the School of Mathematics and Statistics, which has a strong international reputation across a wide range of mathematical disciplines.
We are seeking candidates who have (or will be near to completing) a Ph.D. in Mathematics. While candidates from all areas of geometry will be considered, we are especially interested in candidates with previous research experience in symplectic geometry, algebraic geometry, commutative algebra, or tropical geometry. In addition to collaborating with the grant holder (Jeff Hicks), successful candidates are encouraged to pursue their own research directions during the position. The candidate will join the newly formed research group in Geometry, whose members study symplectic geometry, mirror symmetry, tropical geometry, rigidity theory, and geometric group theory.
The position includes funding for travel, computing, and research expenses. If desired, the holder of the position will be able to engage in activities benefiting their professional development, including student supervision, teaching, workshop organization, or other outreach activities. Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be directed to jeff.hicks@st-andrews.ac.uk.
Applications should be submitted online via the University of St Andrews website at: https://www.vacancies.st-andrews.ac.uk/Vacancies/I/5494/0/456582/889/post-doctoral-research-fellow-ar3164
We welcome enquiries from potential research students who wish to pursue a PhD as part of the Geometry Group. Our main areas of research are rigid geometry, geometric group theory, symplectic geometry, and tropical geometry (see the research page for more details). Applicants should have or be en route to receiving a First class degree (or equivalent) in mathematics. It is recommended that anyone applying for a position communicates with a potential adviser at an early stage, see the members page for a list of staff members.
Funding may be available from EPSRC, or other sources, depending on the academic qualifications and nationality of the applicant. All suitably qualified postgraduate students are offered the opportunity of supplementing their income by undergraduate tutoring.
Further information about applying to a PhD in the School of Maths and Stats can be found in the following website and information about applying, studying, and living in St Andrews is available here. You may also contact the Maths and Stats Director of Postgraduate Studies, Dr Richard Scott (email), or the Head of Geometry, Dr Yoav Len (email).
The Geometry Group at the School of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of St Andrews is seeking to hire a 4-year doctoral student as part of the EPSRC project "Applications of symplectic geometry to algebra". The successful candidate will work with Dr Jeff Hicks and join a vibrant research environment within the School of Mathematics and Statistics, which has a strong international reputation across a wide range of mathematical disciplines.
We are seeking candidates with an MSc or MMath from a UK University (or an equivalent international qualification). While candidates from all areas of mathematics will be considered, we are especially interested in candidates with previous interest in differential geometry or algebraic geometry. The candidate will join the newly formed research group in Geometry, whose members study symplectic geometry, mirror symmetry, tropical geometry, rigidity theory, and geometric group theory.
Funding and Support:
The position is fully funded for 4 years, open to both UK and international candidates. Funding will cover full tuition fees, a maintenance allowance at the St Andrews Stipend Rate (currently £19,775 for the academic year 2025/26, to be reviewed annually), and support for computing and research-related travel. If desired, the holder of the position will be able to engage in activities benefiting their professional development, including teaching, workshop organization, or other outreach activities.
How to Apply:
Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be directed to jeff.hicks@st-andrews.ac.uk.
Formal applications should be submitted online at https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/pgr/home.htm . The closing date for applications is 5 January 2026. While the start date is flexible, we aim for the successful candidate to begin in September 2026.
Applications must include:
A cover letter describing research interests. This letter must mention Jeff Hicks as a supervisor.
CV or résumé. This should include your personal details with a history of your education and employment to date.
Two original signed academic references - these will be requested when you have given contact details in your online application.
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
English language requirements certificate (if applicable).