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Undergraduate Research Programs in Math
Learn more about undergraduate research in mathematics at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist by expanding the sections below!
We do research in mathematics to understand the "why" and "how" of mathematics. We learn what's behind the interesting patterns we see around us. We do research to create new mathematics. Fundamentally, though, we do research because it's fun. This is why we strive to make research one of our core distinctives.
We do research in both pure and applied mathematics, ranging from computational methods of finding best-fit curves to properties of arithmagic squares. Recent topics have included:
- Arithmagic squares
- Knot theory
- Fractional Differential Equations and the Goempertz population model
Here at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ we have a proven track record of transforming students into competent researchers. The process is straightforward and anyone can get involved!
Step 1 – Meet the research faculty!
Introduce yourself to one of the active research faculty and learn about their interests and ongoing projects.
Dr. Chris Thornhill – Associate professor of mathematics – research interests include number theory, algebra (group theory and field theory)
Dr. Charles Nelms – Assistant professor of mathematics
Step 2 – Pick a topic!
After meeting the faculty, was there anything that piqued your interest? Is there something you’ve always wanted to investigate that one of the faculty seem well-suited to help you learn the techniques? Meet again with that faculty member and see if they’d be willing to take you on as a research student.
Step 3 – Make a plan!
Do you want to do research during the semester? How much time can you spend? Discuss with your research adviser and sign up for MSCI 4103, 4203, or 4303 depending on the amount of time you can devote. Be sure to build this into your weekly schedule and stick with your plan!
Step 4 – Discover and share!
Under the mentorship of your research adviser, experiment, explore, and even learn how to overcome obstacles, disappointments, and failure on your way to making discoveries and enjoying the excitement of fulfilling your project. Once you achieve your project goals, you can present your work at scientific meetings, at the annual WBU Spring Research Day, or take MSCI 4360 Thesis and Presentation to write up and publish your work as an undergraduate thesis. It’s only science if it gets shared!
Check out some of the most recent presentations made by mathematics researchers at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University!
Some of the titles below may be clicked on to see the poster or a video of the talk! Do research with us and see your work get added to the list!
Winner – best presentation in Mathematics and Computer Science – TAS 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ
Winner – best presentation in section – Texas MAA 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ
Franklin, E., Kasner, L., Thornhill, C. (51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ) “” 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Texas Mathematics Association of America Section Meeting, Denton, TX. *TALK*
Winner – best presentation in Mathematics and Computer Science – TAS 2018
Rickman, K., Nelms, C. (2018) “Determining Solvability of Entanglements by Connector Loop Orientations” Texas Academy of Science, Midland, TX. *TALK*
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