A maths career that counts for more
As one of the UK’s Intelligence Services, we unlock the complex world of communications to keep our nation safe. What we do is unique and ever-changing – and it’s informed by the amazing work of our Mathematics and Cryptography teams. In this exciting role, you’ll be trained and mentored to use your mathematical thinking to tackle vital problems. The solutions to which will help protect the UK.
From algebra and probability to number theory, statistics and optimisation, you’ll use your mathematical knowledge to work across fascinating areas like cryptography, cryptanalysis, network exploitation, cyber security, data science, machine learning and mathematical modelling. Plus, you’ll be using some of Europe’s most powerful computers to deliver world-class input on vital projects. This is a role like no other – where you’ll get the chance to do varied and meaningful work that you simply won’t find anywhere else.
With a 2:2 degree (or equivalent) in maths, computer science or a similar subject with substantial mathematical content, you’ll bring your maths background along with plenty of curiosity to the role. You’ll love solving problems while juggling competing demands and adapting to new circumstances. And will be passionate about technology, meaning you might even have some experience in programming – although that’s not essential.
From us, you’ll enjoy benefits like 25 days’ annual leave, an additional 10.5 days of public and privilege holidays, flexible working opportunities (subject to business need), an excellent pension scheme, on-site subsidised facilities such as a gym, restaurant and cafes and much more.
And the great thing is, because of who we are and what we do, we’re always developing our methods and practices to keep them cutting-edge. Which means your learning and growth won’t ever stop. We’ll give you all the training you need to become a fully-fledged maths and cryptography specialist, and support you in your future career goals too. This unique role really could be just the beginning of your career with GCHQ.
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.
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To be eligible to apply, you must be a British Citizen. One of your parents must be a British Citizen or must have the nationality or citizenship from our approved list of countries (further information on our eligibility criteria can be found here). 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.
