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Research overview

Join the School of Mathematical Sciences to work on projects in both fundamental and applied mathematical sciences that can be applied to solve a wide range of real-world problems. Projects cover the areas of:

  • Pure mathematics
  • Applied mathematics
  • Statistics and probability
  • Mathematical education

Why choose this programme?

We're seeking enthusiastic research students who are eager to shape the future of mathematical sciences and have a positive impact to the world. Our research projects encompass a wide range, from developing innovative mathematical models to utilizing mathematical sciences for creating sustainable materials and advancing healthcare. Join us and contribute to making a difference in the world through your passion for research.

Our research activities revolve around three captivating research themes, encompassing both traditional areas and emerging, multidisciplinary challenges:

  • Data-driven modelling and computation
  • Teaching and learning in mathematics higher education
  • Algebra and Cryptography

Course content

Throughout your PhD you will focus on learning what information is already published and identifying gaps in knowledge. You will start to formulate your own research questions and develop skills to become a professional researcher.

  • Study the research literature in your field, guided by your PhD advisor.
  • Attend seminars on modern research.
  • Take additional training in mathematical sciences and research skills.
  • Conduct research and obtain novel results.
  • Be part of an active and welcoming community of research students.
  • Write annual reports and journal publications to communicate your research findings.
  • Complete a written thesis of up to 100,000 words.
  • Take a verbal examination (viva voce) where you defend your research to an expert examination panel.

Learning assessment

The emphases are on both broadening your knowledge base and improving the skills and techniques relevant for doing research on thesis-specific matters.

The PhD programme includes a training element, which may include research work as well as traditional taught material, and will include assessed components, designed to support your research.

In each year you will have regular meetings with your supervisor and an annual review.

 

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

PhD

A master’s degree with a distinction or merit grade (or international equivalent) plus, an upper second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in mathematics or a closely related discipline with substantial mathematical content. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.

If deemed necessary, applicants may also be required to attend an interview.

Or

A first class honours degree (or international equivalent) in mathematics or a closely related discipline with substantial mathematical content. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.

If deemed necessary, applicants may also be required to attend an interview.

MPhil

An upper second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in mathematics or a closely related discipline with substantial mathematical content. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.

If deemed necessary, applicants may also be required to attend an interview.

Applicants must have graduated from an approved university. Other equivalent qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Entry requirements in the prospectus and website may not always apply and individual offers may vary.

IELTS (Academic) 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in each element)
TOEFL (iBT) 79 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking)
PTE (Academic) 65 (with no less than 59 in each element)
MUET Band 4

IELTS, TOEFL and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old and all IELTS must be the academic version of the test. MUET results are valid for five years from the date of the release of results.

Applying

How to indicate your research interests

You do not need to submit a detailed proposal, but you must indicate a research theme(s)* that interests you and/or name specific academic staff members who could be your potential project supervisor and/or name specific projects.

*See Section Research Themes and Projects

Further information required when applying:

  • Brief motivation for doing a PhD
  • Your academic record and research experience
  • Sources of funding (if applicable)

Fees

ResidencyFees
Malaysian studentsRM44,075 per year
International studentsRM51,865 per year

Support

The School of Mathematical Sciences provides dedicated support to its postgraduate researchers. Your supervisors will support you throughout your research period. There is also further support within the school including:

  • Mentoring system amongst research students.
  • Mental health support in the form of regular meetings for research students only.
  • Dedicated contacts for Support and Wellbeing, and for PGR Student Advice.

In addition, you will have access to a range of support services, including:

  • academic and disability support
  • childcare services
  • counselling service
  • financial support
  • mental health and wellbeing support
  • visa and immigration advice
  • welfare support

Where you will learn

Malaysia Campus

Semenyih Campus is 48km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and just 45 minutes’ drive from the famous city centre with its iconic Petronas Twin Towers. On arrival, you are immersed in the green jungle backdrop that Malaysia provides with wildlife, sunshine and campus lake.

The campus is home to our business, education, science and engineering schools, which sit alongside a sports centre, library and student accommodation. The University has everything a modern day student could wish for with the added bonus of being located in central Asia allowing you to travel further afield in your free time.

Public transport is plentiful with free shuttle services operating on some routes. Taxi/Grab services in Malaysia are very reasonable and used widely by the student community.

Careers

A postgraduate qualification in Mathematics or Statistics can lead to roles such as academic, data scientist, policy analyst or economist in government organisations and research institutes, banks and investment companies, health research institutes, or as management consultants in finance, insurance, IT, engineering, market research and management consulting

The Careers Advisory Service (CAS) provides you with essential resources and guidance in your career development. There are many opportunities awaiting for you to develop the skills needed to plan and manage your future.

Besides career in academia, PhD graduates in mathematics are in great demand in several sectors, including banking, finance, consulting, data analysis, and various types of industrial research.

Some of the job opportunities for PhD graduates in mathematics are:

  • Assistant Professor
  • Consultant
  • Data scientist
  • Mathematical Modeller
  • Project leader
  • Post-doctoral researcher
  • Research scientist
  • Statistician

Research Themes and Projects

Our research activities revolve around three captivating research themes, encompassing both traditional areas and emerging, multidisciplinary challenges:

  • Data-driven modelling and computation
  • Teaching and learning in mathematics higher education
  • Algebra and Cryptography

Data-driven modelling and computation

Data-Driven Modelling & Computation, a prominent field in mathematics, holds significant relevance across various disciplines such as engineering, physical sciences, biological sciences, and medical sciences.

A substantial number of staff from diverse disciplines within the School of Mathematical Sciences are actively engaged in these expansive fields. They contribute significantly to the advancement of novel methodologies, algorithms, and pioneering applications that encompass disease modelling, stochastic modelling, distributional analysis, image analysis, and food engineering. The collective effort put forward a vibrant research environment dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and fostering impactful interdisciplinary collaborations.

Staff members:

Dr Grace Yap
Dr Liew Kian Wah
Dr Yap Yee Jiun
Dr Ho Weang Kee
Dr Sim Shin Zhu
Dr Gloria Teng

Available PhD projects

  1. Dr Sim Shin Zhu - Development of model for count data with overdispersion.
  2. Dr Grace Yap – Development and application of methods to model stochasticity in drying cocoa beans.
  3. Dr Ho Weang Kee – Development of disease risk prediction model for small dataset
  4. Dr Liew Kian Wah – Image analyses
  5. Dr Gloria Teng - Statistical learning and interpretable machine learning
  6. Dr Yap Yee Jiun - Mathematical modelling in biotechnology

Teaching and learning in mathematics higher education

Our research is dedicated to the pedagogical theory and practice of teaching and learning mathematics at the higher education level. We actively develop, implement, and rigorously evaluate innovative pedagogical approaches rooted in current educational research. Our ultimate goal is to enhance the teaching and learning of mathematics, not only within the School of Mathematical Sciences but also in broader educational contexts.

Staff members:

Dr Betsy Lee
Dr Chee Wing Loon
Dr Grace Yap
Dr Liew Kian Wah

Available PhD projects

  1. Dr Betsy Lee - Digital Technology in teaching and learning of mathematics.

Algebra and Cryptography

Algebra, as a fundamental area of pure mathematics, delves into the study of algebraic structures. Our research group specializes in Non-associative Algebra and Loop Theory, exploring the application of non-associative structures in cryptography. Our aim is to enhance the computational complexity of brute force attacks and establish more robust cryptosystems, thereby bolstering security measures.

Staff members:

Dr Chee Wing Loon

Available PhD projects

  1. Dr Chee Wing Loon - Application of Non-associative Algebra in Cryptography

This content was last updated on 22 March 2024. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.