Maths and Cryptography Insight Programme Ref. 3583

Maths and Cryptography Insight Programme Ref. 3583

Department Maths & Cryptography

Location(s) Cheltenham

Overview

The Maths and Cryptography Insight Programme at GCHQ is a two-week, in-person programme designed to increase diversity within our teams. It runs for two weeks, Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm, with an introductory session on the Sunday evening before the programme begins. Accommodation is provided and funded by GCHQ. Attendees receive a weekly attendance payment of £350, and receipted travel costs up to £250 will be reimbursed.

Dates and Hours

• Monday 29 June - Friday 10 July 2026: Programme for people from ethnic minority backgrounds.
• Monday 13 July - Friday 24 July 2026: Programme for people who identify as women.

Hours: 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. This is an in-person course; remote or home working is not available. If you cannot attend one or two days, you may still participate.

The Role

The programme introduces you to GCHQ and its mathematicians, covering topics in cryptography (including symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, hashing, digital signatures, networks and historical cryptography). Participants apply knowledge to challenges, both as a team and individually. The content complements degree studies and explores potential future roles with GCHQ, from internships to maths and cryptography careers.

This initiative is part of our effort to increase diversity and encourage applicants who might not initially consider GCHQ as a potential employer.

About You

This opportunity is open to people from an ethnic minority background, or those identifying as women (from any ethnic background).

You should have an A in A-level maths (or equivalent) and be in the first year or above of an undergraduate mathematics degree, or a degree with mathematics as the main component (for example Maths with Philosophy or Maths with Physics). Your application will assess mathematical aptitude and a genuine interest in the subject, along with a willingness to learn.

Training and Development

GCHQ offers an inclusive and supportive environment. The programme provides training from expert partners and subject matter experts, plus guidance on writing job applications and preparing for interviews and presentations. It also offers insight into potential full-time roles with us, depending on your degree status.

We emphasise diversity and inclusion as critical to our mission. We welcome applications from those who are under-represented in our workforce, including women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities, and those from low socio-economic backgrounds. Find out more about our culture, working environment and diversity.

Disability Confidence

GCHQ is proud to have achieved Leader status within the Disability Confident scheme. We provide a range of support options during the recruitment process to help you succeed; see our website for information on reasonable adjustments.

What to Expect

Our recruitment process is fair, transparent and merit-based. Stages include:

• Initial application
• Full application
• Application sift for motivation
• Online test to assess problem-solving approach
• Conditional offer if successful

You must complete each stage to progress. The process may take around 4 to 6 months, including vetting.

Before You Apply

To work at GCHQ, you must be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. See our eligibility criteria on the website. This role requires security clearance, and you can learn about the vetting process on our site. There is a strict drugs policy; you will need to declare previous drug usage at the appropriate stage. Consider using a separate email address for application correspondence and avoid including identifying features in your email address for security purposes.

The programme is based in Cheltenham. Accommodation is arranged and funded by GCHQ.

Please note: applications should be launched from within the UK. If you are based overseas, wait until you visit the UK to apply, as applying from outside the UK may affect progression.

Right to Withdraw

We reserve the right to bring forward the closing date if a sufficient number of applications are received. Submit your application at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.