Qichen Zhao
The University of Adelaide
I am a student in the School of Mathematical Sciences (majoring in Statistics) at The University of Adelaide, participating in a joint honours program with Ocean University of China. I completed the first two years of my degree in China and am now finishing the final two years in Adelaide, with my honours year commencing in Semester 1, 2025.
I am deeply interested in the interdisciplinary applications of mathematics and statistics, including but not limited to finance, infectious disease modeling, satellite orbits, and artificial intelligence. I enjoy learning and exploring fascinating mathematical concepts and actively seek guidance from professors and peers to enhance my understanding of the subject.
In my free time, I love exploring nature and admiring the beautiful landscapes of Australia. Traveling has also allowed me to meet new friends from diverse backgrounds, broadening my perspective and enriching my life outside academics. These experiences have inspired me to approach learning with curiosity and enthusiasm, both in and beyond mathematics.
I am passionate about the applications of statistics in various interdisciplinary fields, including finance, infectious diseases, and artificial intelligence. These areas inspire me to explore how statistical methods can be utilized to solve real-world problems and drive innovation across industries
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 studying statistics, with a focus on combining time series analysis and deep learning to analyze satellite orbit data. The integration of deep learning and time series techniques significantly enhances the “memory capacity” of analytical models, making them better suited for processing and analyzing long-term data, such as that from satellites. The potential impacts of this research extend beyond satellite data. It could improve the accuracy and efficiency of models used in fields like climate monitoring, disaster prediction, and navigation systems. By providing more reliable insights into dynamic systems, these advancements can support critical decision-making processes and drive innovation in various industries.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
My father works in finance and has a strong interest in mathematics, which inspired me to explore and eventually develop a deep love for the subject. During my first two years at Ocean University of China, I systematically studied various areas of mathematics and became particularly drawn to statistics. The ability of statistics to uncover patterns in data, make informed predictions, and address real-world problems fascinated me. Now, at The University of Adelaide, I am fully committed to advancing my knowledge in statistics and its applications.
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?
Without the Travel Grant, I would have likely attended the AMSI Summer School online. While the online format still offers valuable learning opportunities, it cannot compare to the experience of attending in person. Being there in person allowed me to connect with talented peers and professors, engage in insightful face-to-face discussions, and gain inspiration from experts in the field. Additionally, AMSI Summer School offers not only courses but also various in-person lectures and activities that significantly enrich the learning experience. Attending on-site provided me with deeper knowledge and a more immersive academic environment.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
There were many valuable aspects of the program, but the most important one for me was the AMSI courses. These courses were both engaging and highly meaningful, providing me with a wealth of knowledge under the guidance of expert professors. Through these lessons, I gained a deeper understanding of the connections between mathematics and other disciplines.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Attending AMSI Summer School provided long-term benefits by deepening my mathematical knowledge, expanding my academic network, and exposing me to new research areas. The experience helped me build valuable connections with peers and experts, which will be beneficial for future collaborations and career opportunities.
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, the Careers Day provided valuable insights into various career paths in mathematical sciences. It helped me better understand industry applications, job opportunities, and the skills needed for different roles, making me feel more confident in exploring future career options.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
I highly recommend applying for AMSI Summer School 2026. It’s a great opportunity to learn from expert professors, explore new areas of mathematics, and connect with like-minded peers. The in-person experience, networking opportunities, and engaging courses make it a valuable academic and professional experience.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
I aim to apply mathematics in various fields and explore its interdisciplinary potential. Currently, I am focusing on the intersection of mathematics, finance, and artificial intelligence. In the future, I hope to become an expert in this area, contributing to innovative solutions that bridge these disciplines.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
Connecting with the AMSI Summer School community greatly enriched my experience. Interacting with peers and professors allowed me to exchange ideas, gain new perspectives, and build valuable academic and professional relationships. The supportive environment made learning more engaging and inspiring.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
The AMSI Travel Grant and Summer School 2025 provided an incredible opportunity to learn, connect, and grow. The support from AMSI made it possible to fully engage in the program, and the well-structured courses, inspiring lectures, and networking opportunities made it a truly valuable experience.