Jaco van Tonder
The University of Queensland
I am a masters student nearing completion doing my research in the area of mathematical physics. I enjoy questions on the boundary of quantum mechanics/ condensed matter physics/ quantum field theory and mathematics. In particular, questions with a motivation in physics but which are also very interesting mathematical questions in their own right. In other words, problems which potentially require some deep mathematical theory but which have the possibility to help understand physical phenomena better. Outside of research, I like reading broadly: science-fiction and mystery novels, as well as popular science. Going for long walks to relax and see nature is another favourite past-time.
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)
My research is in the broad field of quantum integrable systems. These are quantum mechanical systems or models which can be generally exactly solved via analysis or algebraic techniques. This is in contrast to most models in physics which are only solved numerically, i.e. on a computer. Having exact solutions is preferable in that numerical solutions are only approximate and so it is often hard to tell whether their predictions differ from reality because of the approximation or the model itself. Due to their exact nature integrable systems can be used in technological applications where precise predictions or measurements are necessary such as GPS, computer chip quality control, and quantum computers which are very susceptible to noise.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I have been interested in the natural world from a young age and that curiosity has been cultivated through good teachers and my parents. Since mathematics is “the language of the natural world” it is only natural for me to have been drawn to it.
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 do not think it would have been financially viable for me to attend the program without the grant.
If I were only able to attend online I definitely wouldn’t have been able to fully participate in the program, meet all of the wonderful connections I made and had the same motivation to fully engage in my courses.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Being able to focus on learning a subject above all else—all of the other “distractions” that are inevitable when studying a university course. Also all of the like-minded friends I made.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Having made good connections and a better appreciation of what (pure) mathematical research can be like.
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 certainly feel that I understand my options outside of academia better and how I could proceed that pathway if and when necessary. Being able to talk to the industry staff made it also easier to ask about their pathways, what their work is like, and what they enjoy about it.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
I would definitely recommend it. Even if the subjects might not seem applicable to them they will definitely get much more out of the School than they would expect. It is both a good challenge to apply what you know to a different mathematical area and also to meet others who have had a more similar journey to you but whom you might not have otherwise been able to meet.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
I would like to go into research as I really enjoy focusing on an open problem which will give us a little bit more insight into the world. I also enjoy tutoring so would really enjoy teaching undergraduate students.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
It introduced me to new ideas and tools that I didn’t know existed and which I find very useful for my study. It also broadened my connections in ways I will probably not know until several years down the line.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
Do not hesitate to apply for the grant especially if you will not be able to attend the school without it. The AMSI staff are very friendly and helpful if you need to ask them about it.