Fresh thinking with the finest mathematical minds. A summer that adds up.
At GCHQ, we unlock the complex world of data and communications to keep the UK and its citizens safe, both in the real world and online. Working closely with our British Intelligence partners in MI5 and MI6, we protect the UK from threats including serious organised crime, terrorism, and cyber-attacks. A role in GCHQ means you’ll have varied and fascinating work in a supportive and encouraging environment that puts the emphasis on teamwork.
We’re keen to invest in enhancing your talent and maths skills. On our nine-week paid internship, you’ll get an insight into how GCHQ uses innovative technologies, and work on projects which are of real, operational interest to our organisation. The 2024 summer scheme will run from Monday 24 June until Friday 23 August.
A current undergraduate studying for your first degree in mathematics, or a joint honours where mathematics is the main component, you’ll have completed a minimum of two taught years by the start date of the internship and be on track to achieve a 2:1 qualification. On the scheme, you’ll help to deliver projects which require the application of different areas of mathematics. In the past, tasks have included assessing cryptographic algorithms, analysing complex data sets, developing new statistical tools and programming high-performance computers.
We’ll look for evidence of a sound grounding and well-developed abilities in mathematics, although we don’t require specialisation in any particular areas. Previous programming experience would be useful but not essential, and you should also have a passion for solving problems.
To find out more and apply, visit our website >>
At GCHQ diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. To protect the UK, we need a truly diverse workforce that reflects the society we serve. This includes diversity in every sense of the word: those with different backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ways of thinking and those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. We therefore welcome and encourage applications from everyone, including those from groups that are under-represented in our workforce such as women, those from an ethnic minority background, people with disabilities and those from low socio-economic backgrounds. Find out more about our culture, working environment and diversity on our website.
To be eligible to apply, you must be a British Citizen. If you hold dual nationality, of which one component is British, you will nonetheless be considered. Candidates must normally have been resident in the UK for seven out of the last ten years. This is particularly important if you were born outside the UK. You can apply at the age of 17 years, if successful you will not be offered a start date prior to your 18th birthday. Full eligibility details can be found on our website.
