PhD Studentship: Probabilistic Combinatorics

About the role

Funded PhD studentship at the University of Birmingham’s School of Mathematics, supervised by Dr Joshua Erde (j.erde@bham.ac.uk). The project applies probabilistic methods to combinatorics, exploiting a correspondence between counting and probability to transfer tools from probability theory to discrete problems. Research topics include random graph models (Erdos-Renyi and beyond), discrete random processes, and extremal combinatorics. The position covers UK home tuition fees plus a stipend, with a GBP 2,000 annual research training allowance. International applicants are responsible for the difference between home and international tuition rates. Deadline: 30 July 2026.

Responsibilities

• Develop new techniques connecting probabilistic and combinatorial methods.
• Investigate random constructions and discrete random processes.
• Publish findings in journals such as Combinatorica, Random Structures and Algorithms, or Annals of Probability.
• Contribute to teaching and marking in the School of Mathematics.

Requirements

• First-class Master’s-level degree (or equivalent) in Mathematics, with a strong background in combinatorics and discrete probability or related areas.
• Excellent analytical and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently on open research problems.

Nice to have

• Prior exposure to graph theory, extremal combinatorics, or random processes.
• Reading knowledge of research papers in probabilistic combinatorics.
• Participation in mathematics competitions or research projects.

How to apply

Apply through the University of Birmingham postgraduate research application portal at the link above. Reference “Probabilistic Combinatorics - Dr Erde” in your application and include a personal statement, transcripts, and two academic references. Contact j.erde@bham.ac.uk for informal enquiries. Deadline is 30 July 2026.