Research Associate in Algebraic Number Theory

Research Associate - Algebraic Number Theory

Position funded by the EPSRC Grant "Sharifi conjecture for Bianchi 3-manifolds" held by Dr Tobias Berger. Fixed term 36 month appointment commencing 1 Oct 2026, at the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Sheffield.

Salary: £38,784 - £47,389 per annum. Full time (hybrid) contract.

Overview

The project develops new tools in the deformation theory of residually reducible Galois representations and studies the cohomology of Bianchi 3 folds using algebraic K theory to prove Sharifi's conjecture, a key open problem in the Langlands programme.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to and support the research group through seminars and collaborations.
• Prepare high quality research publications.
• Publish papers and present at national and international conferences.
• Attend international conferences and give talks on the group's research.
• Study academic literature to stay abreast of developments and brief colleagues.
• Teaching experience may be available if interested; no teaching is required.
• Make ethical decisions and embed the University sustainability strategy in work activities.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade.

Qualifications

• PhD in pure mathematics or equivalent experience (or evidence of working towards qualification).
• Strong background in algebraic number theory or arithmetic algebraic geometry, with expertise in:
  • Cohomology of arithmetic groups
  • Algebraic K theory
  • Deformations of Galois representations
• Experience of post doctoral research.
• Interpersonal skills for effective working relationships.
• Experience of report writing, giving presentations, and publishing research.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to handle multiple simultaneous demands and activities.
• Proven ability to conduct innovative, cross disciplinary research in pure mathematics.
• Ability to organise resources, plan and progress work activities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to show personal initiative, reliability, and attention to detail.
• Evidence of research innovation.

Benefits

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave (pro rata) with the possibility to purchase additional days.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• Staff networks providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
• Recognition Awards for staff who go above and beyond.
• Commitment to development with access to learning and mentoring schemes.
• Family friendly policies, including paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies, menopause support, fertility treatment support and more.

Line Manager: Senior Lecturer.

We are a Disability Confident Leader. Qualified candidates with a disability will be invited to the next stage of the selection process.

Possession of a criminal record is not an automatic bar to employment at the University of Sheffield.