Case studies: GCHQ mathematician: Mel

Mel studied a Masters in Mathematics at the University of Cambridge and PhD Mathematics at Imperial College London.

I currently work as a Mathematician at GCHQ.

I’d heard about GCHQ during second year at university, from a few people who had secured summer placements there. On the basis of their feedback I kept an eye on the GCHQ recruitment website and realised they recruited for mathematicians each autumn. In the final year of my PhD I applied, sat some tests, had an interview, and underwent security vetting to ensure I could work for one of the UK’s intelligence agencies. I started the job two days after finishing my PhD.

The number theory, coding/cryptography, and computational project I completed during my studies, was all relevant to the work at GCHQ.

The specific maths I studied in my PhD wasn’t all that pertinent, but the fact that I had completed a PhD was important as it demonstrated my ability to research. I was also able to demonstrate other transferable skills that I had developed during my studies, such as communication and teamworking.

I arrive about 8:30 most mornings and leave any time between 4pm and 5.30pm. We have a flexible working pattern at GCHQ, which is great as it means I can manage my own time to suit me and fit in with whatever projects I am currently working on. For the most part my daily function is to develop mathematical models for the implementation of novel algorithms, which are then, refined using computer programs. So there is a lot of research, theory, design and testing, with the main aim of producing better quality results.

I’ve only been in the role six months, so I’m still adapting to my current responsibilities. What I like though is the fact that every day is challenging - not in a way that I go home exhausted - but I’m learning lots of new techniques and approaches, so it keeps me motivated and inspired.

I’ve always enjoyed solving problems, so being a GCHQ mathematician is perfect for me. I like to get to the bottom of a problem, analyse what’s going on and then discover a way of solving it or doing it better. Also, I love the fact that I am continuing to evolve as a mathematician. GCHQ really values the skills I have and encourages me to continue to grow and develop. Of course one of the other most satisfying aspects of the job is that I know I am contributing to a safer society.

I’m not overloaded with work but I am often working on several different projects at once, so being able to prioritise is important. I have a steep learning curve when it comes to technology and have to learn a great deal about computers in a short time frame. Including learning some new programming techniques rather rapidly, but while that’s challenging it’s also what I enjoy.

There are so many new things to learn. I get to work with some of the brightest brains in Britain and using some of the most powerful computers available. It is a good working environment with comfortable conditions, excellent facilities, and flexible working arrangements.

Undoubtedly technology is the future. So it makes sense to apply your maths in a computer environment as much as possible. Therefore learning aspects of computer programming will definitely be of benefit.

AGCAS

Sourced by AGCAS editors

Date: 

March 2011

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