Caleb Mario
University of Queensland
I’m a penultimate year Math/Econ student intending on starting an honours or masters this year. I’m interested in various mathematical fields including epidemiology, biological math problems, general data analysis, genetics, finance and have a general appreciation for pure mathematics. At AMSI 2026 summer school I studied “Applications of Probability Generating Functions in Biological Systems” which has applications to infectious disease modelling and modelling the development of cancer: in particular when stem cells mutate in gestation. Outside of mathematics I like climbing rocks, and hitting a small white ball with a stick.
Give me a quick overview of the type of mathematics you are studying, and/or the aims of your research and its potential applications/outcomes
I’m studying Data Analytics and Operations Research. Governments use data and data analytics to enable effective policy creation, illuminate security concerns, and to surveil and prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases. For example, the police use data analytics to estimate what area crimes are most likely to occur. Private companies also use data and data analytics to optimise strategies, improve yield, develop technology, and generate insight. For example, farming companies use data analytics to select what livestock is most likely to have offspring that produce the most yield. The use of data analytics and its specializations allow governments and companies to better sustain and protect the lifestyles of the Australian community.
How did you get into the mathematical sciences? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I’ve never been one to have been inspired however mathematics is eloquent, rewarding and dangerous. I’ve always known from late High School I wanted to pursue mathematics and I would spend a lot of my time creating proofs, doing classwork and learning higher mathematical theories.
You received a grant to attend AMSI Summer School. How important was this in terms of your ability to attend, fully participate in the program and meet others studying in similar fields?
Receival of the travel grant and the temporary residency at Mannix college has been essential for me to participate in the program and meet others. I’ve only experienced the in-person program but I would generally opt for the in-person experience.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The ability to engage with mathematics in this January intensive has been refreshing and the meeting of like-minded STEM-employed people has been valuable.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
The AMSI summer school has shed light on future career pathways through events like Careers day and has broadened my horizons beyond what generally occurs within a classroom or a specific University society.
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. Attending firms at careers day were engaged with students and provided an enriching network that allowed us to follow-up on firms that aligned with our career prospects. The attendance of Intelligence agencies, Australian Bureau of Statistics, EdgeRed, Aerospace companies and other mathematical groups were enriching.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2027? Should they apply and why?
If the courses available in summer school 2027 are of interest to the individual, align with their career prospects and the time fits within their availability I would encourage students to apply for AMSI 2027 Summer school.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
The pursuit of a career in epidemiology and data analytics seems to be at the forefront of my current ambitions.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
The solidifying of the AMSI Summer school community aided the intensive nature and promoted hard work within the context of studies.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2026?
I would like to extend my gratitude to AMSI for the organisation of the 2026 Summer School; the speakers, firms and lecturers for their illuminating talks and conversations; and to Mannix college for welcoming us during our stay.