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https://bucknell.zoom.us/j/95413936042
Student Colloquium Talk by Professor Sanjay Dharmavaram

Abstract: Ever wonder why  mathematics classes focus so much on linear problems? In Calculus we learn about linear approximations. In Differential Equations, after classifying differential equations as linear and nonlinear, we mostly focus on linear problems. Linear Algebra focuses exclusively on systems of linear equations. There are two reasons for this: 1) nonlinear problems are hard!! Unlike linear equations, there is no unified theory that works for all nonlinear equations. 2) linear approximations are often a good starting point to study nonlinear problems.

In this talk, we will make a foray into the marvelous world of nonlinear systems and discuss techniques under the umbrella of “Bifurcation Theory” to analyze them. Bifurcation theory is a branch of mathematics that investigates, albeit qualitatively, nonlinear equations containing a tunable parameter. Such equations routinely arise in biology, engineering, physical and social sciences. Some examples include models for understanding cardiac arrhythmia, synchronization of fireflies’ flashing, pattern formation in reaction-diffusion systems, and buckling of structures under mechanical loads. In this talk, we will also see how the tools of bifurcation theory can be used to analyze some of these problems.

Watch on Mediaspace: https://mediaspace.bucknell.edu/media/1_gzca3xpq

https://bucknell.zoom.us/j/95413936042

Student Colloquium Talk by Professor Michael Reeks.

Abstract:

Anyone who has ever shoved a pair of headphones in their pocket knows about the following general principle of the universe:”Any flexible strand will tie itself in knots as soon as it’s given the opportunity.” As such, knots are ubiquitous in nature and art:

– DNA strands, so often pictured as tidy helices, actually spend most of their time hopelessly knotted;
– the way in which proteins interact and function depends heavily on the way they are folded, or knotted, together;
– and some of the oldest known art is based on complex patterns of knots.

Mathematicians, always ready to help out, have therefore tried to study and classify knots for decades. In this sadly pizza-less talk, I’ll introduce the mathematical theory of knots and knot invariants, which are tools that can help us tell knots apart. I’ll explain how some basic questions in knot theory tie into sophisticated topics of current research, and explain a few fascinating ways in which knots arise in chemistry, biology, physics, and art.

Flyer: https://tinyurl.com/y4fwvzjh

Video (Bucknell login required): https://mediaspace.bucknell.edu/channel/Mathematics%2BDepartment/184494973

Hear advice and perspectives from Bucknell alumni who will examine career paths that utilize the mathematics degree while discussing their work and available opportunities. The conversation will include a question and answer period and an opportunity to meet (and network with!) the alumni panelists. Pizza and calzones will be provided. This event is sponsored by the Mathematics Department and the Center for Career Advancement.

Panelists:

• Allison Gibson ‘13, Consultant, Boston Consulting Group; MBA Graduate 2019, Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University
• Rachel Guen ‘19, Associate Analyst, Moody’s Investors Service
• Zach Moon, ASA ‘16, Actuarial Advisor, Cigna
• Jin On ’12, Manager, Data Science & Provider Analytics, Evariant
• Laura Papili ‘17, Forecast Analyst, Nielsen BASES

Moderated by Professor Linda Smolka, Mathematics

Yili Wang ’21, an applied mathematical sciences and computer science major from Sichuan, China, sees connections between the passions for music and mathematics that she’s pursuing at Bucknell.

Carolyn Sidoti ’19, a Mathematics and Music double major, performed her senior violin recital last weekend. You can read all about it here. Congrats, Carolyn!!

https://www.facebook.com/266699492339/posts/10157141057037340/

Yili Wang ’21, who is majoring in Applied Mathematical Sciences, is featured in this video about the “Cool Class” DANC 200: Art of Chinese Watersleeve.

As part of Professor Flynt’s Foundation Seminar titled Sports, Statistics and Society, groups of first-year students acted as consultants, performing sports analytics for different Bucknell athletic teams.  Students worked with Baseball, Field Hockey, Men’s and Women’s Basketball, and Football.  Each coach developed a set of questions that they were interested in having the students analyze and gave students full access to their team data.   The group of students working with the football team worked very closely with Offensive Coordinator, Coach Bobby Acosta, spending time in the football coaching suite, looking at game video, and taking stats for the team up in the box at several practices.  Their analysis of practice data helped inform play calling for the offense in the last couple games of the season.  The project was featured in this segment during the TV broadcast of the final game versus Fordham on November 17th.