PhD Studentship in Mathematical Cognition in the Mathematics Education Centre

The Mathematics Education Centre (MEC) at Loughborough University is an internationally renowned centre of research in mathematical cognition. 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.

A PhD studentship is available commencing in April 2016. The studentship is for three years and is valued at £14,057 p.a. plus tuition fees at the UK/EU rate. We welcome applications from non-EU/UK candidates but they must be able to fund the difference between home and international fees.

The successful applicant will work with Dr Camilla Gilmore and Dr Nina Attridge on a project exploring the development of early numeracy skills. This will involve conducting cognitive studies with preschool and early primary-school children to understand how early numeracy skills develop and what influences this development.

This project is suitable for a candidate with a good honours degree in Psychology, who is interested in development and learning and has some experience in conducting research with children. Due to the nature of this project there will be a requirement for a formal Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check of the successful candidate.

Entry Requirements

All candidates must have (or expect to gain) a good honours degree (at least 2.1) in Psychology, Education or a related discipline. A relevant MA/MSc would be an advantage. Other qualifications may be considered in conjunction with significant experience in the field. Prospective candidates may approach potential supervisors to discuss the suitability of their qualifications. Essential for success are good English language skills, both oral and written (see www.lboro.ac.uk/international/englang/index.htm for the University’s requirements). 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 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: www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research 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 summary of a final year / masters project, or other research they have been involved in.

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@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 with Dr Gilmore (c.gilmore@lboro.ac.uk) is welcome prior to any formal application. Reference number: 2015/PHM/2