Benjamin Lang
The University of Adelaide
Hi! My name is Ben, and I am a graduate student at the University of Adelaide. I am just starting my MPhil (Master’s) this year in applied maths, under the supervision of Matt Roughan and Hung Nguyen. My background is a mix of aerospace engineering and maths, with my undergrad being a double degree in both, but am finding my interest more and more lies with maths! My research largely focuses on exploring networks and their topologies, but broadly I am interested in anything Data Science. I really enjoy exploring different tools and techniques to make sense of data and the world around us, and applying these tools to solve real-world problems. Outside of maths, I enjoy running, music (both listening and playing), and a cheeky game of GeoGuessr.
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)
My research generally falls under the umbrella of data science, but specifically focuses on analysing networks; networks have a bunch of different applications: from internet networks, to social networks (who your friends with, and who they’re friends with!), and even transport networks (such as the London Underground). My research includes collecting examples of these networks and using algorithms/models to analyse them. Such analysis can provide useful insights and benefits, such as detecting anomalies in a network to prevent cyber-attacks, or modelling traffic flow such that it can be optimised to reduce traffic.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I always really enjoyed mathematics (and was somewhat decent at it) in both primary and high school; it was really satisfying to tackle a math problem and solve it, and I enjoyed its objectiveness compared to the humanities. While I started university in engineering, I slowly drifted more into mathematics itself, with this being where my interests lie. The range of problems that maths can be applied to really excites me, with more abstract reasoning interesting me more than designing parts in CAD. The knowledge and passion of the lecturers and researchers at the University have also inspired me to continue my journey in 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?
It was essential for me: I would not have been able to attend without it. I cannot recommend attending in-person more. You get the chance to live in a different city, and meet people from across the country, and hear about their experiences and journey in maths. I always find it interesting and insightful, and useful as I continue to figure out what most interests me and my trajectory. You lose that by attending online, as it then feels like any other online course offered by your university.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Getting to meet and learn from other people, as well as getting to experience living in a different city. Having lived in Adelaide most of my life, I loved getting the opportunity to explore Sydney and experience it from that perspective. It was also great to learn content from experts outside of Adelaide, that I normally would not have access to.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Getting to meet my peers from across the country, and form those connections. I am sure those contacts will be invaluable as we become more specialised and experienced in the years to come.
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?
It was beneficial to hear from the different companies/organisations, and to see the range of options available. It was good getting the broad spectrum: from secondary school teaching, to quantitative trading.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
I believe they should absolutely apply. You have nothing to lose! It is a really unique opportunity to push yourself outside your comfort zone, to meet new people, and experience a different university and city for a month. You get to learn a heap, and have fun while doing it!
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
At this stage, I want to explore as many topics within data science and see where my interest lies with the most. Then after completing the MPhil, I would love to undertake a PhD overseas.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
It definitely helped me to get through the summer school. It is really helpful to discuss problems with other students, with that collaborative learning experience being vital.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
Thank you for the opportunity to attend the AMSI Summer School in-person! I enjoyed every minute of the summer school, and am extremely grateful to AMSI for the experience. Thank you to all those who organised the school and allowed for it to happen.