AMSI grant recipient profile: Tuyen Nguyen Dang

 

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 (how you would explain your work and studies to friends who don’t study maths?)

Currently, my field of interest is Geometric Analysis. My first research topic involves harmonic and p-harmonic forms on Riemannian manifolds. On the other hand, I am studying some important geometric partial differential equations on Riemannian manifolds. So far, I have obtained some newgradient estimates and applied to prove Liouville-type results for solutions of the equations.

How did you get into the mathematical sciences? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?

My love for mathematics started in school, thanks to my inspiring teachers. When I entered university, the deeper I studied, the more I became fascinated by the beauty of mathematical sciences.

Winter School is designed to give students a deeper understanding of their area of research and expose them to others working in different fields/industries. Tell me about your Winter School experience. What was the most valuable part of the program for you?

During the Winter School, I gained valuable knowledge directly from top experts and exchanged ideas with many participants from different fields. The most meaningful part of this experience was being inspired by the lecturers. Their guidance not only expanded my understanding but also gave me new motivation for my future work.

What was your main take away/s from AMSI Winter School? Something you learnt? A connection you made? Do you have new ideas for your work/research or see it in a new light?

I gained a lot from AMSI Winter School, including new knowledge and valuable connections with other researchers. Most importantly, the lectures gave me a broader view of my field. This has provided me with fresh perspectives and new ideas for my ongoing work.

What surprised you most about Winter School?

When looking at the program, I was surprised to see special lectures from experts in other fields. In particular, during the public lecture at the State Library of Queensland, I was deeply moved to see a packed auditorium. There were elderly couples attending together, and even a mother holding her baby while listening intently. This strong atmosphere of public academic engagement was the most surprising and impressive thing to me.

What is the importance of in-person communication at an event like Winter School?

In my opinion, in-person communication offers crucial benefits that online learning simply cannot provide. Being there in person makes it much easier to exchange and share ideas. Furthermore, it creates a natural connection between people, both during classes and coffee breaks. Most importantly, face-to-face interaction brings extra inspiration and energy to both lecturers and students.

You received a grant to attend AMSI Winter School. How important was this in terms of your ability to attend, fully participate in the program and meet others studying in similar fields?

Receiving the grant from the organizers played a decisive role in my attendance. As an early-career researcher, I could not have found another source of funding to join the Winter School. This grant allowed me to participate fully in the program under the best possible conditions and gave me a wonderful opportunity to connect with peers in my field.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Winter School? How would you describe the conference to them?

My advice is simple: do everything you can to attend the Winter School. It is an invaluable opportunity for your long-term research career, and a truly unforgettable experience with the people and country of Australia

Tell us about a moment that changed a preconceived idea about your field?

Before the program, I thought mathematical research was a lonely path filled only with dry formulas. However, seeing a packed auditorium with people of all ages at the Queensland public lecture completely changed my view. I realized that mathematics can be deeply connected to the community and full of life.

Where do you want the mathematical sciences to take you? Where do you see yourself in five, ten years time?

In the next five to ten years, I want the mathematical sciences to help me become a dedicated researcher and lecturer. I see myself working on meaningful research projects and, at the same time, inspiring the next generation of students, just like my teachers inspired me.

Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the travel grant or AMSI Winter School?

Everything about my experience was very wonderful. I hope this program continues long into the future and offers even more grants. This will allow more students from developing countries to have the incredible opportunity to learn, network, and be inspired.