David Signorelli
University of Adelaide
I completed a BSc in 1991 and spent the best part of the next 3 decades as a Mathematical and Economic Statistician before retiring just before Covid 19 hit. Returning to Uni I have studied Classical History and Mathematics and just started an MPhil in Pure Mathematics in 2025.
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)
Lie algebras and representations, and related algebraic varieties. My main interest is to extend into mathematical physics.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
Just sort of fell into it at a young age. I really didn’t have any relevant role models until after I was ‘doing’ maths at Uni.
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 crucial. I certainly could not have attended without it and with all the distractions of the family home I would not have been able to focus without attending! I am very grateful for the opportunity to interact with the academics and students that this offered me!
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Realising that the community of Australian Mathematicians is broader than it seems through the lens of a single university.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Exposure to a wider range of subjects than may be available at a single university. Also, good to see the enthusiasm in such a large community of students.
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?
Less of an issue for me but good to see that employers are targeting Mathematics graduates.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
If you can commit to the effort – do it. … And if you can attend in person, all the better!
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
Do my research degree and then see how I feel.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
Lots of enthusiasm for discussion and collaboration amongst the attendees. Made it feel like we were all doing it together.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
Many thanks for the opportunity and support that the grant gave me!