AMSI grant recipient profile: William Hadden

 

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?)

The central theme of my research is to turn a numerical approximation into a rigorous proof. For instance, suppose I would like to solve the equations that govern how fluids flow. These are difficult to solve directly, but one can solve them numerically. However, this falls well short of a rigorous proof that such solutions exist. My research aims to bridge this gap, turning the approximate numerical solution into a rigorous proof with quantifiable error estimates. Geometry provides the broader setting for many of these problems and gives us a powerful language for understanding them.

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

My passion for mathematics really began in high school. It was the class I always looked forward to. I remember being completely absorbed in the problems, and the classes always seemed to fly by. I was also fortunate to have a brilliant physics teacher with an incredible passion for the subject, who inspired me to study mathematics at university. Since then, I have been surrounded by many incredible people who have continued to encourage and inspire me.

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?

I had a fantastic time at Winter School. Staying at the residential college with the other attendees was a superb opportunity to get to know people in my field, learn about what they are working on, and build meaningful connections and friendships. The course content was also relevant and very well delivered. It gave me greater confidence to engage with other parts of my field. In particular, I really enjoyed learning about gravitational instantons!

What was your main take away/s from 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?

For me, the most valuable takeaway was the course on gravitational instantons. All the lectures were excellent, but I had already been interested in this area, so the opportunity to learn it from such an accomplished lecturer was amazing. Hearing their insight and approach gave me a much deeper appreciation of the subject.

You received a grant to attend 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?

The grant was extremely important, in allowing me to attend and fully participate. Being able to stay at the college meant I could continue discussions after class and connect socially with the other participants, which was one of the most valuable parts of the experience

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

Just apply! It is a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, deepen your understanding of your field, and connect with people working in related areas. The conference is very well structured, with ample time for discussion, and the atmosphere was friendly and welcoming.

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

I want a career that allows me to continue doing mathematics and research, whether that is in industry or academia. Doing a PhD will give me the skills and qualifications to pursue both paths.

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

I would just like to reiterate that I am very grateful to have received the grant and to have had the opportunity to attend Winter School.