At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team researching Diophantine equations and local-global principles.
- Company: King's College London, part of a vibrant number theory community.
- Benefits: Professional development days, inclusive culture, and a supportive research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in number theory while collaborating with leading researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant area or near completion, strong research skills, and excellent communication.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for career growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
The number theory group at King's currently consists of several researchers and PhD students. We benefit from being part of the wider London number theory community, with the London Number Theory Seminar and associated study groups hosted by Imperial, King's and UCL, and also take part in the biannual London-Paris Number Theory Seminar.
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate to work with Rachel Newton on the UKRI-funded project 'Diophantine equations and local-global principles: into the wild'. The post is available for two years, starting on 1st September 2026. The project spans several topics including Brauer groups, Brauer-Manin obstructions, and the frequency of failure of local-global principles in families of varieties and number fields. It also includes applications of p-adic geometry to the study of Brauer-Manin obstructions and rational points on varieties.
The postdoctoral research associate will contribute to appropriate strands of the project according to their background and interests. Those interests may be in arithmetic geometry, arithmetic statistics and/or analytic number theory. When applying, candidates should include a CV with a list of publications and a research statement, and arrange for two reference letters to be sent directly by the closing date. This is a full time post (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 31/08/2028.
Research staff at King's are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development. This entitlement applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7.
To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:
- Essential criteria
- PhD awarded in relevant subject area or PhD in relevant subject area near completion
- Excellence in research and publications, commensurate with career stage
- Excellent written communication skills
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- Specialist knowledge in one of the areas of the research programme outlined above
- An interest in rational points on varieties, local-global principles and/or arithmetic statistics
- Desirable criteria
- Strong background in one of the following areas: p-adic geometry, arithmetic statistics, analytic number theory
- Experience of working independently
- Experience of working in collaboration
- Experience organising seminars/study groups or similar
We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community. We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's.
As part of this commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and through this appointment process, it is our aim to develop candidate pools that include applicants from all backgrounds and communities. We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.
Interviews are due to be held in late January 2026.
Research Associate in Number Theory in London employer: King's College London
Contact Detail:
King's College London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Number Theory in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get involved in local seminars and workshops related to number theory. It's a great way to meet potential collaborators and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just rely on your CV; practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your research interests and how they align with the project at King’s. Confidence can make a huge difference in interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s just good manners!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Number Theory in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your research experience, publications, and any relevant skills that align with the role. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to the specifics of the number theory project.
Nail Your Research Statement: This is your chance to showcase your passion and expertise! Clearly outline your research interests and how they connect to the project. Be specific about your background in arithmetic geometry or analytic number theory, and show us why you’re the perfect fit.
Get Those References Ready: References can make or break your application, so choose wisely! Make sure your referees are familiar with your work and can speak to your strengths. Give them a heads-up about the role and what you’d like them to highlight.
Apply Through Our Website: We want to make this process as smooth as possible for you, so apply directly through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at King's College London
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and how it relates to the project on Diophantine equations. Be prepared to discuss your publications and any relevant work in arithmetic geometry or analytic number theory. This shows your passion and expertise!
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some deep dives into topics like Brauer groups and local-global principles. Brush up on these concepts and think about how they apply to your work. Practising explaining these ideas clearly will help you shine during the interview.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working with Rachel Newton and possibly others, be ready to talk about your experience in collaborative settings. Share examples of how you’ve worked in teams or organised seminars, as this will highlight your ability to contribute to the group dynamic.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Excellent verbal communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts on complex topics in a straightforward manner. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but how you convey that knowledge!