AMSI grant recipient profile: Quynh Le

I am a PhD candidate in Mathematics at VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, and a full-time Lecturer in Mathematics at the University of Economics and Business, VNU. My research lies at the intersection of geometric analysis, partial differential equations and conformal geometry, where I study nonlinear equations arising from geometric structures. During my PhD, I have been fortunate to publish in leading international journals and collaborate with researchers at the Institute of Mathematics and VIASM. Alongside research, I enjoy teaching because I believe mathematics is not only about solving difficult problems but also about inspiring curiosity and critical thinking. I hope my work will contribute to the development of geometric analysis and encourage more young students to pursue mathematical research.

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?)

If I were explaining my research to friends, I would say that I study the hidden mathematical rules that describe geometric objects. Although my work is highly theoretical, it develops analytical tools that help mathematicians understand difficult equations appearing in geometry and mathematical physics. I enjoy working on problems that require creativity, patience and collaboration, and my goal is to discover new methods that can be applied to broader mathematical questions.

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

My interest in mathematics started when I was a student at a high school for gifted students. I was fascinated by the elegance of mathematical proofs and the satisfaction of solving challenging problems. As I progressed through university and my Master’s degree, I realised that research offered an opportunity to keep learning every day. The encouragement and guidance of my supervisors inspired me to continue towards a PhD and pursue research as a long-term career.

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?

AMSI Winter School was one of the highlights of my PhD journey. I had the opportunity to present my research on the moving sphere approach to a general weighted integral equation, based on one of my recent publications. Presenting my work to researchers and fellow students was both exciting and motivating. Equally valuable were the advanced lectures, which were closely related to my research interests and introduced many modern ideas in geometric analysis.

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?

The Winter School broadened my perspective on current research in geometric analysis. I also had many opportunities to meet international students, discuss research, exchange study strategies and learn how they approach mathematical problems. These conversations motivated me to think more broadly about my own research and strengthened my desire to build international collaborations in the future.

What surprised you most about Winter School?

I was surprised by the combination of academic excellence and the welcoming atmosphere. Every lecture was of an exceptionally high standard, yet the lecturers and participants were approachable and willing to discuss ideas. The friendly environment made it easy to ask questions and learn from one another.

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

Meeting people in person creates connections that online meetings rarely achieve. Informal conversations during coffee breaks, meals and social events often became meaningful discussions about mathematics, careers and future collaborations. These interactions were one of the most valuable aspects of the program.

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?

The AMSI Travel Grant played a crucial role in making my participation possible. It removed financial barriers, allowing me to focus entirely on learning, presenting my research and interacting with researchers from different countries. Without this support, participating in such a high-quality international program would have been much more difficult.

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

I would encourage every postgraduate student with an interest in mathematics to apply. Winter School is much more than a series of lectures—it is an opportunity to become part of an international research community. Be curious, ask questions, share your work and make the most of every conversation.

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

Before attending AMSI Winter School, I viewed mathematical research as largely an individual pursuit. During the program I realised how much progress is driven by collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Seeing researchers openly discuss problems and different approaches reminded me that mathematics grows through community as well as individual effort.

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

Over the next five years I hope to complete my PhD, publish further high-quality research and strengthen collaborations with international researchers. Looking ahead ten years, I hope to become an independent researcher while continuing to teach at university. I would also like to undertake long-term research visits abroad and contribute to international collaborations in geometric analysis.

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

I sincerely thank AMSI for the generous travel grant and for organising such an outstanding Winter School. The experience enriched my mathematical knowledge, expanded my professional network and strengthened my confidence as a young researcher. I hope AMSI continues supporting early-career mathematicians through opportunities like this, because they have a lasting impact on both research and professional development.