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  4. Maths and Cryptography Insight Programme - GCHQ
Lock Applications for this job open on 25 Sep 2026

Cheltenham

Attendance payment: £350 per week, plus accommodation and receipted travel costs up to £250

Dates of Insight Programmes: Monday 28 June to Friday 9 July 2027 for people from ethnic minority backgrounds and Monday 12 July to Friday 23 July 2027 for women

 If you're currently studying maths at university and considering your future, applications are now open for our two-week Insight Programme. This is a unique chance to gain hands-on experience and discover where your passion for maths can take you. 

As one of the UK’s Intelligence Services, at GCHQ we unlock the complex world of communications to keep our nation safe. What we do is unique and ever-changing – and it’s driven by the amazing work of our Mathematics and Cryptography teams. From evaluating existing theorems and developing new ones, to using cutting-edge technology to contribute to security projects, the work they do is fascinating, rewarding, and impactful. And you could be part of it.

The opportunity

We strive to be as inclusive and representative of society as possible, however we acknowledge that women and those from ethnic minority backgrounds are currently underrepresented in our teams. That’s why we offer this programme to undergraduates from these groups. 

If you’re curious but not sure if a career with us is right for you, join us for two weeks and gain a unique insight into how we use maths and cryptography to keep the UK safe. This is your opportunity to see what we do, delve into new theories, test yourself against a series of challenges, and explore future pathways including internships and permanent roles – all alongside a cohort who share your passion for problem-solving.

About you

You’ll 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 where mathematics is the main component (for example, Maths with Philosophy or Maths with Physics). We’ll assess your mathematical aptitude as part of the application process, and we’ll be looking for a real interest in the subject. We also want to see that you’re willing to learn new things. 

Insight Programme dates

This year we’re running two programmes:

  • Monday 28 June to Friday 9 July 2027 for participants from an ethnic minority background
  • Monday 12 July to Friday 23 July 2027 for women from any ethnic background 

Both programmes run for two weeks, 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, and include an introductory session at the provided accommodation on the Sunday evening before they begin. 

Applicants must be able to attend in person, as remote and home working are not available. Applicants who are unable to attend one or two days may still be able to participate.

Attendance payment and benefits

£350 per week plus accommodation. We will also contribute towards travel expenses at the beginning and end of the programme up to a total of £250. 

At GCHQ diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. To protect the UK, we need a truly diverse workforce that reflects the society we serve. This includes diversity in every sense of the word: those with different backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ways of thinking and those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. We therefore welcome and encourage applications from everyone, including those from groups that are under-represented in our workforce such as women, those from an ethnic minority background, people with disabilities and those from low socio-economic backgrounds. Find out more about our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion on our website.[SF1]  

*Dependent on role specific eligibility requirements. 

To be eligible to apply, you must be a British Citizen. If you hold dual nationality, of which one component is British, you will nonetheless be considered. You can apply at the age of 17 years, if successful you will not be offered a start date prior to your 18th birthday. See our website for full eligibility details. 

We’re now open for applications. So, if you’re curious, why not take a look at the full details? 

Apply online now.