AMSI grant recipient profile: Brianna Laird

I am currently completing my Honours in Telecommunications and Computational Mathematics at Deakin University. My research focuses on mathematical modelling and optimisation for the design of next-generation 6G networks. Specifically, I apply methods from operations research and graph theory to determine how infrastructure such as radio and optical transport components should be deployed and interconnected to deliver reliable, high-capacity, and cost-effective connectivity.

My journey into the mathematical sciences began unexpectedly during my undergraduate studies in cybersecurity, where early exposure to discrete mathematics and cryptography sparked a deep interest in mathematical reasoning. Since then, I have expanded my work to include optimisation and heuristic methods, with a strong focus on their practical applications in real-world telecommunication engineering problems.

Beyond my research, I am passionate about making mathematics accessible and showing its role in shaping future technologies, working with local highschool kids to show them of different pathways. I have also been fortunate to present my work at conferences and publish in telecommunications and mathematical journals, and I am now preparing for PhD studies.

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?)

I use mathematics to work out how we should plan future 6G networks. In practice, that means figuring out the best way to place devices and how to connect them with the lowest possible cost, while still meeting strict requirements for speed, reliability, and coverage. To do this, I use mathematical modelling techniques from operations research and graph theory, which let me translate a real-world engineering problem into something solvable with algorithms.

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

I stumbled into maths almost by accident. I started out certain I would pursue a career in cybersecurity, but in my first semester I took a discrete mathematics subject and realised I genuinely enjoyed the problem-solving. That interest grew further when I studied cryptography, which just showed me how fun maths is to learn and the fact that the challenges in maths are quite enjoyable.

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?

The most valuable part for me was learning about memetic algorithms and seeing how heuristics can be applied to real-world problems. It gave me fresh ideas for how I could extend my own research.

What was your main take away/s from AMSI-MATRIX 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?

My biggest takeaway was from Pablo Moscato’s lectures on memetic algorithms. I have been building a genetic algorithm this year, so being able to listen to him and ask questions really influenced how I think about heuristics. His emphasis on creativity in heuristic design was especially inspiring, also on trying to apply some exact methods within a heuristic to enhance them.

You received a grant to attend AMSI-MATRIX 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 essential as without it, I wouldn’t have been able to attend. It covered my accommodation on campus, which made participation possible and meant I could stay with other students, share ideas, and build valuable connections. Being in person also allowed me to interact with the lecturers directly and ask many questions.

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 anyone to apply, even if they feel they aren’t “experienced enough yet.” The Winter School was one of the best experiences I’ve had, the atmosphere, the people you meet, and the knowledge you gain are incredible.

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

I’m currently applying for PhD scholarships, so in five years I hope to have completed my PhD and be working either in academia or in a research-driven role in industry.

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

Just a big thank you to AMSI and MATRIX for making this opportunity possible!