Isaac Beh
The University of Queensland
I am a Honours student studying at the University of Queensland under Jorgen Rasmussen. I am primarily interested in the combinatorics of diagram algebras, but I enjoy learning about all branches of mathematics and how they relate to physics. I’m a bit of a nerd and would learn about everything and anything if I had infinite time. When not reading about maths, I enjoy going on long hikes, cooking and reading sci-fi and fantasy novels. I also enjoy playing around with programming languages as it gives me the power to more deeply explore the things I learn and care about.
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 try to study as broad of a range of topics as possible, but this year I am trying to focus on my Honours project studying diagram algebras. In general, I spend my time looking at equations that can be represented using diagrams that look like tangles of strings. These algebras can be used as models of various physics phenomena, though they are still interesting purely for the beauty within.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I’ve always enjoyed puzzles and problem solving, but I had some particularly inspiring and motivating high school teachers that gave me a glimpse at the beauty that maths can offer. When I spent my holidays reading about maths for my own enjoyment, I knew that I had found my passion.
You received a Travel Grant to attend AMSI Summer School 2025. 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?
I would not have been able to attend the AMSI Summer School without this grant, so it really was invaluable. Being in-person provides you with so many opportunities to connect with others studying mathematics and see what other universities focus on and specialise in.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The course in algebraic knot theory covered such valuable content. It will give me a headstart with my Honours project and was an interesting subject to learn outright on its own.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
I think the biggest long-term benefit will be the connections and friendships I made with such a wide variety of students. I believe that maths is becoming more collaborative, so it is vital to have a diverse network of contacts.
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?
I was surprised by the number of different careers on offer at the Careers Day. I think it is really important to keep in mind the range of possibilities that mathematics provides you. I’m always keeping my plans for the future open, as events like the Careers Day show you just how diverse the opportunities are.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
Just do it. It can be daunting to apply for programs whilst you’re still studying and unsure where you want your larger plans are. The AMSI Summer School is well worth your time; you will meet mathematics students from many different places and experience what other universities are like, whilst still studying and learning interesting content.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
My current plans depend on how much I enjoy my Honours year. I see so many problems in industry that could be resolved by mathematical problem solving. However, if I enjoy my Honours year, I truly am drawn to continuing to do a PhD and potentially looking at teaching roles.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
I think this was one of, if not the most, essential parts of the experience. It was so interesting to see the range of backgrounds and skills that other students focus on. Solving problems and chatting about the content late into the night were some of my fondest memories of the Summer School.