The school
Two fields, one room
Probability and partial differential equations are powerful methods to model, analyse and predict real world phenomena. When they are combined, they serve as even more powerful tools that apply to a wide range of problems, from deep theoretical aspects to very concrete tasks. Yet, the people who need them are rarely trained in both.
This school puts them in the same room for nine days. Mornings are lecture courses that build from standard graduate material to open questions. Afternoons are problem sessions where participants actually work, with lecturers present. Evenings are for posters and conversation.
PDEs and Randomness is held annually at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences in Kigali and is open to applicants from any country. This is the fourth edition.
Eligibility
Who should apply
Master's students
In the final year, with a course in measure theory and one in PDEs or stochastic processes.
Doctoral students
At any stage, working in analysis, probability, mathematical physics or a neighbouring area.
Postdocs and early faculty
Within roughly seven years of the doctorate, moving into the field or looking for collaborators.
Applications from women and from institutions across Africa are particularly encouraged. Teaching is in English.
Support
What the school covers
- ✓The school will cover return international travel to Kigali
- ✓The school will cover accommodation in Kigali for the duration of the school
- ✓The school will cover all meals during the school
- —Visa fees, passport fees and travel insurance remain the participant's responsibility
There is no registration fee. Selected participants are asked to attend the full programme.
Programme
Nine days
Lecturers and course titles are announced as they are confirmed. The daily rhythm will be posted later.
Applying
Three steps
Get your documents ready
A CV as a single PDF, the photo page of a passport valid until at least June 2027 (or accepted by Rwandan Immigration rules), and your motivation letter drafted to 250 words or fewer.
Fill in the application form
One form, about fifteen minutes. It asks for your academic background, your motivation, whether you would like to present a poster, and any dietary requirements.
Wait for the committee
Every applicant is told the outcome by 25 September, whether selected or not.
Calendar
Key dates
Questions
Before you apply
Do I need a valid passport to apply?
Yes. Travel is booked well in advance, so the form asks you to confirm that you hold a passport valid at least until June 2027 and to upload its photo page. If your passport is being renewed, say so in the form rather than waiting.
Do I have to present a poster?
No. The form asks whether you would like to, and posters are welcome from anyone with work in progress. Presenting is not a condition of selection, and choosing not to present does not count against an application.
What if my background is only in probability, or only in PDEs?
That is the normal case and the reason the school exists. The first course starts from graduate material on both sides. Say clearly in your motivation letter what you have studied.
Can I attend only part of the school?
Travel is funded on the basis of full attendance, so partial attendance is only possible in exceptional circumstances agreed in advance.
How are participants selected?
The scientific committee reads every application. It weighs the fit between your background and the courses, what the school would change for your work, and the balance of institutions and countries represented.
Applications close 15 September 2026
Apply to the fourth edition
Have your CV, passport photo page and 250-word motivation letter to hand before you start. The form saves your progress if you are signed in to a Google account.
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