Samudra Madushani
University of New South Wales
I am a second-year DARE (ARC-funded industrial transformation training centre in Data Analytics for Resources and Environments) PhD candidate at the University of New South Wales. Before joining as a PhD candidate, I completed BSc in Statistics and Operations Research at the University of Peradeniya and MSc in Industrial Mathematics at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
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)
My PhD thesis is focused on exploring and extending the theoretical aspects of game theory. In the first project, I have provided the benefits of considering game theoretic techniques over the MILP model in closed-loop supply chain network design. Overall, the insights and methods developed in this project will contribute to developing more realistic supply chain.
2. How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
During high school, I was passionate about Mathematics. I understood my potential and interest to do a PhD during my BSc and MSc degrees.
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?
AMSI travel grant assisted me in gaining the most out of the summer school. It was a great opportunity to network with peers and to present my research at the participant’s talk session.
4. What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The most valuable part of the program for me is offering the Algorithmic Game Theory and Economics Course.
5. In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Acquired knowledge from summer school will assist me in applying and extending the game theory into my future research.
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?
Yes, Career Day was a good opportunity for me to comprehend how Mathematics plays a significant role in industries.
7. What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2025? Should they apply and why?
I’d definitely recommend applying for Summer School. It is a perfect place to enhance your knowledge of Mathematics.
8. What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
In the future, I will engage in research work in the field of data science.
9. How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
Regularly attending summer school lectures, discussing doubts with the lecturer and the exchange of ideas with peers assisted me in gaining this experience.
10. Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2024?
Thank you so much for providing me this opportunity.