Daniel Fraterman
The University of Adelaide
Daniel completed his Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Advanced) with a double major in Applied Mathematics and Statistics. To further his studies, Daniel recently started his Master of Philosophy in applied mathematics at the University of Adelaide, focusing on modelling the evolution of ecologically scaffolded life cycles.
1. Can you give me a quick rundown about the type of mathematics you are studying and its potential impacts for the broader community (think how you would explain your work and studies to others who don’t study maths)
I am currently using mathematical models to simulate the ecological conditions required for a group of cells to reproduce such that the resulting child is similar to the parent. The aim is to gain a better understanding of what conditions could have led to the emergence of multicellular life as we know it.
2. How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I have had a keen interest in mathematics since as long as I can remember, which led me to completing my bachelor’s degree in the subject. It was during courses throughout my third year where I developed a further interest in mathematical modelling that led me to my current position.
3. You received a Travel Grant to attend AMSI Summer School 2024. How important was this in terms of your ability to attend, fully participate in the program and meet others studying in similar fields? Do you think it was an advantage to attend the program in-person?
The Travel Grant ensured that I was able to attend the program in person which I believe was crucial in taking the full advantage of the opportunities provided by the Summer School. Being able to attend the careers day in person allowed me to discuss in detail with each of the representatives. The ability to communicate with others in the program not only provided support and benefit for learning in my own area, but also allowed me to learn from the wide range of areas studied by my peers.
4. What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The courses provided me with experience in many topics, all very useful in my research, however the networking and social aspect were unobtainable anywhere else. This aspect has been and will continue to be valuable in not only my studies but other areas of my life as well.
5. In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Aside from the immediate benefit to my M.Phil that the courses in the program provided, attending the Summer School also presented me with many new directions I can take my career in thanks to the careers day.
6. 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?
The Careers Day offered talks from a wide variety of industries from Optiver to the Bureau of Meteorology and catered to almost every area. Having not looked into industry much before this opportunity, the ability to hear from so many experts and to talk with them directly afterwards has greatly improved my understanding of exactly what they have to offer and what I can be capable of in the future.
7. What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2025? Should they apply and why?
They shouldn’t hesitate to apply! Try and participate in person however possible so that you can make the absolute most of every experience and to meet as many people as possible.
8. What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
At the moment I am happy working research in applied mathematical sciences with possibly a PhD in the same area after the completion of my MPhil.
9. How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
The community at the AMSI Summer School was absolutely amazing. There was strong support both inside and outside classes with the community quickly forming a family. At any time, there was someone to talk to, learn from or just have fun (usually playing table tennis) with.
10. Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2024?
The AMSI Summer School has been one of the best experiences of my life, thank you for providing both the opportunity and the grant as well as my countless fond memories of the experience.