Research Teach Repeat: Applied Mathematics

One of the great appeals of applied mathematics is that it provides a broad set of analytic techniques that allow deep insight into almost all branches of scientific inquiry. These insights can include predictions about the possible behaviour of systems that might otherwise be missed through an entirely observation-based approach. At UNE, much of our research in applied mathematics is in the area of mathematical biology. This work includes studies on the growth and range expansion of species entering new environments via the analysis of partial differential equation models. Insights from such studies include the conditions under which populations survive and proliferate or die, or where coexistence of multiple competing species is possible. We have expertise in the modelling and analysis of collective animal motion, including work that has revealed the individual interactions that drive such motion for multiple species, including fish and Antarctic krill. Our interests also extend to the general study of the emergent behaviour of complex systems via individual-based models, epidemiology via the study of stochastic systems, and biomechanics and cooperative behaviour in sports and exercise. Much of our study in applied mathematics is multi-disciplinary, and involves direct collaboration with biologists, computer scientists and sports scientists.