Owen Wilson
Monash University
Hi I’m Owen Wilson, I am currently halfway through my Honours year in Mathematics at Monash University. For my thesis I am particularly interested in improving variance bounds for general classes of continuous time Markov processes. In general, my interests lie in probability theory and functional analysis and I am eager to see what will become of them be it in industry or academia.
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)
Generally speaking, I am studying random processes. Such processes are everywhere and as such have fairly direct impacts on the broader community. In particular though I am interested in variance bounds of processes that run in continuous time. Though the methods of proof in this area are, in general, quite abstract, the idea of better understanding the nature of randomly evolving systems is of interest to a wide range of practical problems particularly in physics but also to engineering and finance.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
It wasn’t until my second year at Monash that I really found my love for mathematics. For me it was the understandability and concreteness of the area that pulled me towards mathematics.
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?
It was a huge advantage to attend in person. Without the travel grant I would not have met so many new people and been able to collaborate with individuals from such diverse backgrounds. For me being there in person was what made it all worth doing.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Being part of the program was an incredibly worthwhile experience, giving me the chance to count a subject toward my Honours degree enabled me to better balance my workload and study more effectively. Beyond that, one of the most rewarding aspects was meeting new people, forming friendships, and gaining insight from others at different points in their mathematical careers.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
I think I have a better understanding of how mathematics is taught in Australian universities more generally having spoken to people from departments across the country. Also, having attended I feel I have become more aware of the diversity of interests within the mathematical community and this understanding will help me make informed decisions about where and what I choose to study in the future.
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?
Yes. I feel I have a better idea of the options available to me as far as industry is concerned and I think I have a better idea as to how the application processes work for these jobs.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
Maybe study something outside of your comfort zone, especially if you are young. You’re not a topologist, or an expert in PDEs, you aren’t a pure, or applied, or statistics specialist, not yet. Get an idea as to what’s out there before you find your niche.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
To learn more. Be it in industry or in academia I want to continue to learn and explore and broaden my understanding.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
The community aspect of the summer school was a real highlight of my time. Spending time around likeminded people that can relate to the excitement a proof can give you or the challenge one may pose is refreshing and really helps with one’s motivation.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
If you’re thinking about applying, go for it. It’s a unique experience and a great time overall.