Campus News

Students gain math research experience

August 6, 2009

Four Simpson students were able to gain hands-on research experience this summer through the Dr. Albert H. & Greta A. Bryan Summer Research Program in Mathematics at Simpson College.

Simpson is one of the few colleges of its size to have its own undergraduate summer research program.

The research program provides a unique opportunity for Simpson students to conduct mathematical research after their freshman or sophomore years. During the program, the students work closely with one of two members of the Simpson faculty.

This year, the research projects where led by Bill Schellhorn and Heidi Berger, both assistant professors of mathematics at the college. Schellhorn’s group used knot theory to create mathematical models of DNA recombination, while Berger’s students created population models for the Emerald Ash Borer beetle using time scales calculus.

Students in both groups said the projects were beneficial.

“This was the first time I had been involved in mathematical research; therefore, I learned a lot about what mathematics research is and how it is completed,” said Simpson student Alonzo Barkley, who worked with Schellhorn. “I also learned the basics of a completely new branch of mathematics.”

Simpson student Kraig Thomas, who conducted research with Berger, agreed.

“As we’ve done research here on campus, I’ve gained immeasurable insight about the deep field of math, the frustrations and excitements of a new topic, and a new appreciation for the work biologists and mathematicians have done in the field,” said Thomas.

Last Updated: 8/6/09