University of Birmingham - The Austin Prize

What the Austin Prize gives you

The student who submits the best dissertation in the subject of ‘Pure Mathematics’ as part of the MSci degree programme in Mathematics will receive a one-off prize of approximately 614 EUR. Pure Mathematics is the branch of mathematics that deals with abstract structures and proofs, such as algebra, analysis and number theory, rather than practical applications. The prize is awarded by the School of Mathematics at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom and is funded by private donors. It is presented once a year at the graduation ceremony, alongside similar prizes for the best final-year projects in the fields of data science and statistics, and applied mathematics.

Who can win it

• Degree: You are studying for a four-year MSci degree in Mathematics.
• Where you study: You’re studying at the University of Birmingham.
• Field: Your MSc thesis in your final year of study focuses on pure mathematics.
• Performance: Your project was recognised as the best in the field of pure mathematics in your graduating year.
• Nationality: Any nationality can win, as long as it is represented in the programme.

How to apply

There is no application process. The Faculty of Mathematics selects the winner from among the graduates of the MSci programme, and the prize is presented at the graduation ceremony in July.

How realistic are your chances?

Each year, only one student wins this award; their project is selected as the best in the field of pure mathematics amongst MSci graduates in Birmingham. Unlike an open scholarship, you cannot prepare for this in advance, as it is not an application that is being recognised, but a single outstanding project. If your project stands out particularly to your supervisor and the examiners, you are in the running. Otherwise, there is no way to apply.