Yiran Mao
Australian National University
I am currently pursuing a double degree in the Bachelor of Philosophy and Bachelor of Science at the Australian National University, majoring in Mathematics and Computer Science.
In 2020, before university, I was awarded first prize in the Physics Olympiad. In 2024, I conducted a summer research project on Constant Geodesic Curvature Foliations in Neck-like Surfaces under the supervision of Dr. Timothy Buttworth.
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 am focusing on pure mathematics and particularly interested in mathematical physics. Mathematics like this plays a crucial role in understanding complex systems, from predicting physical phenomena to improving artificial intelligence. In the broader community, these ideas help optimize data processing, advance quantum computing, and even model real-world systems like weather patterns or financial markets.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
My journey into mathematics started with my deep interest in physics during high school, where I participated in the Physics Olympiad and was awarded first prize in 2020. Through solving challenging physics problems, I realized that the underlying mathematical structures fascinated me just as much as the physical concepts themselves.
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?
Attending in person was a huge advantage. It provided the opportunity to engage directly with experts, ask questions in real time, and collaborate with peers who share similar research interests. Beyond coursework, the face-to-face interactions fostered deeper discussions, new perspectives, and potential research collaborations that wouldn’t have been as easily developed in an online setting. The immersive experience of being part of a vibrant academic community was invaluable.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
For me, the most valuable part of the program was the opportunity to engage with the academic community that formed on campus. The courses were exceptionally well-organized, providing ample opportunities for collaborative discussions and deeper exploration of ideas.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
It deepened my understanding of advanced mathematical concepts, which will be invaluable for my future research in mathematical physics. The structured courses and collaborative environment enhanced my problem-solving skills and exposed me to new perspectives in mathematics.
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?
Absolutely! The Careers Day program at AMSI Summer School provided valuable insights into the diverse career paths available for mathematics graduates, particularly in industry. It broadened my perspective on how mathematical sciences are applied beyond academia, from data science and finance to technology and engineering.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
I would highly encourage anyone considering AMSI Summer School 2026 to apply! It’s a fantastic opportunity to deepen your mathematical knowledge, engage with like-minded peers, and explore new areas of research. The courses are well-structured, covering advanced topics that might not be available at your home university, and the collaborative learning environment makes a huge difference in understanding complex concepts.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
At this stage, I am more inclined toward academia, as I believe it aligns best with my ambitions. However, since I have yet to begin my Honours research, I cannot be certain whether I will enjoy it as much as I anticipate. That said, I prefer to keep my options open and remain flexible in exploring different paths.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
Connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School greatly enhanced my experience. Engaging with like-minded peers, lecturers, and researchers created a collaborative learning environment where we could discuss complex mathematical ideas, share different perspectives, and support each other academically.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
No further comments. It was enjoyable!