Alice Rossiter
The University of Melbourne
Alice is a Masters student currently at the University of Melbourne. She previously completed her Bachelors of Mathematics at the University of Queensland.
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)
In my Masters Project I am currently studying braid groups. As the name suggests these objects describe the ways you can braid strands together, and they have some beautiful symmetries that lend themselves to theoretical physics. One exciting application is for a new type of quantum computer, called a Topological Quantum Computer.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
The earliest I can recall enjoying maths was as a child being taught decimal addition by going grocery shopping with my mum. What was a simple method to teach her child, and make sure she kept a budget, ended up leading to a lifelong love of mathematics.
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 sense of community at AMSI was very strong, and was definitely an advantage to attend in person. But beyond that it was helpful for participating in classes to the full degree, whereas for an online class we might just do the lectures then quietly study on our own, this gave an opportunity to leave class and discuss the contents of our lectures and help develop each others understanding.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The best part about attending this program was getting to meet, and work with, other students in my field. It was a highlight of my summer getting to explore the beautiful city with new friends.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
The course I took, knot theory, will directly have applications in my study which will be a massive help. And in the long term it will be very helpful having these new connections with students from universities across Australia for future networking.
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?
The careers day introduced me to several new jobs that a maths/stats degree can help to get. One of particular interest was learning that there are positions in Antarctica to work for the Bureau of Metereology which would be open for me.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
If you are available in the summer to attend, then you should absolutely apply. You will expand your horizons of maths knowledge, not just in the course you choose but by meeting people taking other courses offered by AMSI, and will make great friends.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
Currently I am enjoying my research, and hope to one day get a position at a university to continue research and help teach the next generation.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?\
Connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School was an amazing experience. The collaborative environment allowed me to exchange ideas with other students, including ones who were taking other courses. It also helped encourage studying, since leaving assignments to the last minute would just mean you miss out on socialising.