PhD position

Fully funded PhD opportunities in algebraic combinatorics, geometry and mathematical physics at OIST Prospective doctoral students interested in algebraic combinatorics, geometry and their connections with mathematical physics are invited to apply to the PhD programme at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST). The Algebraic Combinatorics and Fundamental Physics Unit, led by Matteo Parisi, studies mathematical structures arising at the intersection of combinatorics, algebraic geometry and quantum field theory. Research interests include: - Total positivity, Grassmannians and the amplituhedron. - Cluster algebras and their connections with geometry and combinatorics. - Matroids, discrete geometry and positive geometries. - Geometric approaches to scattering amplitudes and their singularities. We welcome students with a strong interest in mathematics who would like to explore these subjects and their connections with fundamental physics. Students with backgrounds in mathematical or theoretical physics are also encouraged to apply. The unit currently includes three postdoctoral researchers, alongside research interns and rotation students, working across mathematics and theoretical physics. OIST offers a fully funded, five-year PhD programme taught in English, with financial support covering tuition and living expenses. Its international research community and individually tailored curriculum provide opportunities to develop mathematical research alongside exchanges with neighbouring fields. Applicants must complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree before enrolment; students currently completing their degrees are welcome to apply. Applications must be submitted through OIST’s central admissions system. Applicants interested in our unit should select Matteo Parisi as a Faculty of Interest and explain their mathematical interests in their statement of purpose. Students are admitted to the OIST PhD programme and undertake first-year research rotations before thesis-unit matching. Placement in a specific unit is determined through this process. Application deadline: 15 November 2026, 23:59 JST (UTC+9). Available entry dates are 1 May 2027, 1 September 2027 or 1 January 2028. Applicants must arrange for at least two recommendation letters to arrive before submitting their application. Application requirements and admissions information: https://www.oist.jp/admissions/phd-program/apply-phd Online application portal: https://graduateschool.oist.jp/apply/ Research unit: https://www.oist.jp/research/research-units/comphy Matteo Parisi: https://www.oist.jp/research/research-units/comphy/matteo-parisi PhD programme: https://www.oist.jp/admissions/phd-program/program-description Student and financial support: https://www.oist.jp/education/student-support Scientific enquiries: Matteo Parisi — matteo.parisi@oist.jp Unit administrative enquiries: parisi-unit-admin@oist.jp

Last updated: 19 October 2026