Alex Marciano
University of Adelaide
I finished a three-year math undergrad at the University of Adelaide last year and am starting an MPhil this year. My research project is focused on algebraic topology and category theory, however there are many other areas I would like to learn about. Previously, I completed a summer research project on category theory and attended AMSIConnect 2024. I enjoy mathematics most when I can balance solitary focus with group collaboration
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)
I’m studying ‘stacks’ and ‘topological groups’ within the context of ‘category theory’ (read the Wikipedia articles on these terms if interested!). My work aims to classify these structures and extend existing results to much more generalised and abstract cases.
Originally, some of the motivation for this comes from an area of physics call ‘higher gauge theory’. Ordinary gauge theory can describe what happens to point particles when moved around by familiar forces such as gravity and electromagnetism. Higher gauge theory can describe what happens when you move a string or higher-dimensional membrane around and is related to the study of string theory.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
In high school I was generally more interested in STEM subjects, and decided to try out math, physics, and computer science subjects when I started university. By second year, I found myself really engaging with mathematics in particular and have been motivated to continue this path since. Both the high quality of teaching, and of my peers have been big inspirations for me.
You received a Travel Grant to attend AMSI Summer School 2025. 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?
The Travel Grant was massively important for me to attend summer school in person. Personally, it was not going to be feasible at all to attend without the grant. Attending the program in-person was great, and I certainly would not have been able to engage fully if I was online instead.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Meeting other aspiring mathematicians from across Australia was super valuable and enjoyable. Adelaide offers comparatively fewer networking prospects due to its smaller academic community, but at the summer school I was able to connect with many.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Making friends with other math people from around Australia feels like a big benefit, as does having a good taste of higher-level mathematics. The course was a unique opportunity to gain knowledge quite different from undergrad subjects at my home university
Summer School included a special Careers Day program which aims to help give students an idea of the kinds of career paths available to maths graduates in industry and private sector research areas. Do you feel better equipped to explore career options in the mathematical sciences after attending AMSI Summer School?
Yes, I do believe the Careers Days was informative for potential future career options. There were some companies who I had not considered or heard about before, and it was nice being able to talk to the representatives in-person.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
I would say to definitely apply for the program. The application process is fairly straightforward and quick to complete.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
Currently I would like to continue in academia with mathematics research. However, I am open to other career possibilities, such as with BOM, after discussing at the career day.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
It supported my experience hugely. Many of the assessments where infinitely more manageable due to the support of our small community at the college. On a social level, it was nice always having someone like-minded to chat with.