Liang Tee
The University of Melbourne
I am in my second year of Masters, studying Pure Mathematics at The University of Melbourne after having completed my Bachelor of Science there. I am mainly interested in algebra and number theory; currently I am doing research on local class field theory. I plan to take a PhD after I finish my Masters.
1. Can you give me a quick rundown about the type of mathematics you are studying and its potential impacts for the broader community (think how you would explain your work and studies to others who don’t study maths)
The part of local class field theory I am working on involves studying the structure of Galois extensions of local fields, specifically their maximal abelian extensions. Understanding the properties of local fields can help us understand the corresponding properties of global fields.
2. How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I have always enjoyed studying mathematics since I was young. In school, I was mainly interested in doing mathematics for its own sake rather than for any real-world application, so I already had a goal to study pure mathematics since high school.
3. You received a Travel Grant to attend AMSI Summer School 2024. How important was this in terms of your ability to attend, fully participate in the program and meet others studying in similar fields? Do you think it was an advantage to attend the program in-person?
Obtaining the grant helped me and my family worry less about the costs. Attending the program in person was important since I got to meet and keep in touch with others also studying mathematics.
4. What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The most valuable part of the program was being able to take a subject that wasn’t taught at my university. It was interesting to learn about number theory from a different perspective.
5. In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Attending the summer school allowed me to meet fellow students I can keep in touch with, and helped improve my ability to talk to others. The tutorials allowed me to refresh myself on maths subjects that I had forgotten about. I expect the mathematics I learned in the summer school will be helpful for future studies.
7. What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2025? Should they apply and why?
Anyone interested in learning more mathematics should apply. There are few other opportunities to meet others who are also passionate about mathematics.
8. What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
I’m interested in doing a PhD after my Masters. Afterwards I want to do some more research and study in other parts of pure mathematics.