Difference algebraic groups

Key facts

Difference algebraic groups can be described as subgroups of the general linear group defined by algebraic difference equations in the matrix entries. They occur naturally as Galois groups in certain Galois theories and have applications to arithmetic problems. The main goal of this project is to further develop the very rich and beautiful theory of these groups and to expand their areas of application.

Algebraic groups can be described as subgroups of the general linear group defined by algebraic equations in the matrix entries. They play an important role in algebraic geometry and representation theory and have a well-developed structure theory. This project is at the crossroads of the theory of algebraic groups and difference algebra, i.e., the systematic study of difference equations from an algebraic point of view.

A substantial body of results is already available for difference algebraic groups defined by ordinary difference equations. See e.g., [1]. A main theme of this project is to generalize these results to partial difference equations.

This project is ideal for students with a good background and interest in algebraic geometry and commutative algebra.

The successful applicant will benefit from large and vibrant research groups in algebra and logic running several weekly seminars.

[1] Finiteness properties of affine difference algebraic groups, International Mathematics Research Notices 2022(1), 506-555, 2022

To apply for this project you will need to make a formal application for research degree study through the University website. You will need to create a login ID with a username and PIN.

• For Application type please select Research Degrees – Research Postgraduate.

• The admission year for this project is 2027/28 Academic Year.

• You will need to select your Planned Course of Study from a drop-down menu. For this project, scroll down and select PHP Pure Mathematics Full Time.

• The project start date for this project is 1 October 2027, please use this as your Proposed Start Date of Research.

• Please state clearly in the Research Information Section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is Difference algebraic groups as well as Dr Michael Wibmer as your proposed supervisor.

Please state clearly in the Finance section, the funding that you are applying for, if you are self-funding or externally sponsored.

More information on how to apply is available on our website here. You will be required to provide a personal statement which outlines your interest in the project you are applying for, why you have chosen it and how your skills map onto the requirements of the project.

We will assess applications continuously as we receive them. We welcome and strongly encourage any potential applicants to contact the supervisor(s) for an informal discussion, prior to applying, and recommend submitting your application early.

If you are applying with external sponsorship or you are funding your own study, please ensure you provide your supporting documents at the point you submit your application:

Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including the grading scheme

Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project

If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).

As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

This is a non funded PhD project. Applicants are expected to be self funded or to secure external funding.

You can find out more about our Funding Opportunities on our Postgraduate Research Opportunities website.

Important: Please note that all costs associated with your arrival at Leeds (visa, Immigration Health Surcharge, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source.

For questions about this research project, please contact Dr Michael Wibmer by emailing m.wibmer@leeds.ac.uk

For general enquiries about applications, including how to apply, please contact PGR Admissions by email to phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk

• Type of research degree: PhD
• Application deadline: Monday 31 May 2027
• Project start date: Friday 1 October 2027
• Country eligibility: International (open to all nationalities, including the UK)
• Funding: Non-funded
• Supervisors: Dr Michael Wibmer
• Schools: School of Mathematics
• Research groups/institutes: Pure Mathematics

Research areas