[Maths-Education] Funding opportunities for PhD studies at the Mathematics Education Centre - Loughborough University

[Paul Hernandez-Martinez]

Postgraduate Research Studies in the Mathematics Education Centre, Loughborough University

The Mathematics Education Centre (MEC) at Loughborough University is an internationally renowned centre of teaching, learning and support. It is a key player in many high-profile national initiatives. With a growing number of academic staff and research students the MEC provides a vibrant, supportive community with a wealth of experience upon which to draw. Centre staff are interested in supervising PhD students on topics related to their research interests. A full list of staff research interests can be found at: http://mec.lboro.ac.uk/pages/research_interests.html and a list of possible projects proposed by staff can be found at: http://mec.lboro.ac.uk/pages/research_projects.html. Candidates can work on one of these projects or propose one of their own if they feel passionate about a particular topic that is broadly in line with the interests of the MEC staff.
We have funding for well-qualified students to enable them to undertake research in the Mathematics Education Centre commencing in December 2011, April, July or October 2012. This funding covers tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and a living stipend that is currently valued at £13,590 plus p.a. We welcome international applicants who are able to cover the difference between home and international fees.

The closing date for applications is OCTOBER 31ST, 2011.

Entry Requirements
All candidates must have (or expect to gain) a good honours degree (usually at least 2.1) in Mathematics, Education, Psychology or a related discipline. Essential for success are good English language skills, both oral and written. The successful applicant will be expected, with support, to study relevant research literature, attend appropriate training to fill gaps in their preparation and develop their general skills, identify research questions and take the lead in designing and conducting studies to investigate these questions. They will also be expected to take a full part in the research life of the Centre, participating in research seminars and reading group sessions, giving presentations and seeking funding to attend conferences.

How to apply
Applicants must formally apply online at: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/essentialinformation/howtoapply/index.html
And submit the following to accompany their application:


 *   A one-page CV summarising relevant experience and skills.
 *   A one-page cover letter describing their reasons for wishing to undertake PhD study in their chosen area and the personal qualities that they will bring.
 *   A two-page essay on one or more issues affecting learning in mathematics.


Submitted materials will be assessed for coherence, clarity and relevance.
These documents should be e-mailed directly to Dr Paul Hernandez-Martinez (P.A.Hernandez-Martinez at lboro.ac.uk<mailto:P.A.Hernandez-Martinez at lboro.ac.uk>) or posted to the Mathematics Education Centre (for the attention of Dr Paul Hernandez-Martinez), Loughborough University, LE11 3TU, Loughborough, UK.

Contact

Informal contact is welcome prior to any formal application. Dr Paul Hernandez-Martinez (P.A.Hernandez-Martinez at lboro.ac.uk<mailto:P.A.Hernandez-Martinez at lboro.ac.uk>) will be happy to talk through opportunities and direct applicants to potential supervisors.