PhD Studies

The Department of Algebra offers the doctoral study programme P4M1 Algebra, Number Theory and Mathematical Logic; the link contains all essential information.

Each doctoral student has an individual study plan whose core is research collaboration with a supervisor. Early selection of a suitable topic and supervisor is therefore a key step toward successful completion of the studies. If interested, do not hesitate to contact any lecturer. A list of all research topics covered by the department can be found in the Research section. Contacts and research interests of our academic staff are available in the People section.

Every year we offer several fully funded positions guaranteeing a doctoral stipend according to the Higher Education Act (in the academic year 2025/26 the minimum is CZK 25,000 per month and the amount changes annually according to the minimum wage). If departmental resources allow, the paid amount is somewhat higher than the legal minimum. In previous years, the average net income of active doctoral students was around CZK 30,000 per month.

We recommend the following procedure to applicants:

All information about admissions procedures can be found on the faculty website. The format of the entrance examination is described here. The selection is non-trivial; admission is not automatic even for candidates who already have an agreed supervisor. Unsuccessful candidates may be admitted to part-time study without guaranteed funding.

Important notice: Some supervisors may have a different selection process with earlier deadlines; for example, number theory has its own rules described here. It is possible to arrange a supervisor from the Academy of Sciences, but in that case approval of the respective institute is required, committing to contribute to the doctoral income; such approval must therefore be negotiated in advance (and is usually conditioned on grant funding).

To complete the programme, it is primarily necessary to defend a doctoral dissertation. The expected duration of study is 4 years (maximum 8 years). Funding for active students is guaranteed for 4 years provided they are positively evaluated each year by the supervisor and the doctoral board.

Ph.D. students may use subsidized meals, discounted transport fares, dormitory accommodation, and other benefits. The national health insurance scheme covers our doctoral students. There are no tuition or other fees that would apply to PhD students. The price level in Prague can be estimated at Numbeo. The amount of net 30,000 CZK/month is sufficient for a comfortable student life in Prague.

Any questions regarding doctoral studies at our department will be answered by the Head of Department, David Stanovský, or the coordinator of the program Jan Krajíček.