Ross Tieman
Australian National University
Ross is a PhD candidate at the Fenner School of Environment and Society at the Australian National University (ANU). His research focuses on modelling collective intelligence and complex systems, exploring how information sharing and network structure influence socio-ecological resilience. This research is interdisciplinary in nature and uses computational approaches such as agent-based modelling and network analysis to study how systems adapt to disruption and maintain function under stress. This research has practical applications in understanding resilience to global catastrophic risks, which he pursues through his work with the Alliance to Feed the Earth in Disasters (ALLFED). Before joining ANU, Ross earned a BSc(Hons) in Chemistry/Biochemistry and BA in Philosophy from the University of Adelaide, and a Master of Applied Cybernetics from ANU.
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 focuses on the analysis of complex systems, utilizing a combination of time series analysis, statistics, and network science. The application of this research aims to develop better models and theories of how systems can become resilient to stressors, such as disasters, and methods to test their adaptability. This work can inform resilience planning efforts that could improve infrastructure design and ecological management approaches to ensure key functions are maintained under stress.
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 allowed me to stay in Sydney on the campus and attend in person. Attending in person made it a much more immersive experience, allowed me to better engage with other students, work on problems face to face. This just made it more fun, engaging and productive experience.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Being immersed in the program with other motivated, intelligent, and interesting people was invaluable. While the lectures were excellent, the comments and responses from other students added significant value to the learning experience.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
The program provided an opportunity to engage with new mathematical concepts that would have been challenging to explore within the context of my PhD. The intensive, time-bounded nature made it easier to dedicate focused time to learning new methods and approaches that would have been more difficult to manage over a longer period. From this I have new areas of mathematics I would like to further explore and apply to problems from my field.
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 was well-organized, featuring a diverse range of potential employers. It was helpful to see the various options available and learn about different ways to apply mathematical skills in professional settings.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
I highly recommend applying. The courses were great, passionate student and teachers made for an excellent for environment for learning that was highly enjoyable and memorable.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
I aim to continue my current trajectory as a researcher analysing complex systems using computational and mathematical modeling-based approaches. As to how I do this after my PhD I am open to opportunities in industry or NGOs, as well as academia.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
The community aspect was one of the program’s greatest strengths, significantly enhancing both learning and enjoyment. I hope to maintain ongoing collaborations with fellow students and teachers from the program.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
It was an excellent experience, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to attend, thanks to all the staff and sponsors that made it possible.