STEM Program

Applied Mathematics and Python in Real World Applications

Faculty Advisor: Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies, Mathematics, Georgia Institute of Technology

Research Program Introduction

Mathematics serves as a powerful tool across many disciplines. In this research program, students will explore key applications of mathematics, conduct research on one selected area, and produce a final report or paper presenting their findings.

During the first session, the professor will introduce several core areas of applied mathematics. Each student will then choose one area to focus on. While multiple students may select the same topic, every participant will complete an individual final project or paper. To support their research, the professor will provide additional learning materials related to each chosen topic.

The remaining five sessions with the professor will follow a college-style seminar format. Students are expected to dedicate at least five hours per week to independent research outside of class. They should come prepared with questions for discussion, which the professor will address to guide their progress. In addition, each student will receive one-on-one mentoring sessions with a teaching assistant on their academic writing and potential publications.

Students will also develop their understanding of the Python programming language, with instructional materials provided by the professor. Basic programming skills are essential for success in applied mathematics.

Possible Topics For Final Project: 

  • Mathematics in Finance: Discover how math drives smart investing. Learn to measure risk and return, and build your own model portfolio using real market data.

  • Mathematics in Genomics: Learn how math has made reading the human genome possible and affordable. Code an algorithm to analyze real genetic data.

  • Mathematics in GPS: Build an algorithm to find the fastest or most efficient path using a real dataset.

  • Mathematics in Encryption: See how number theory keeps online communication secure. Learn the math behind encryption and code your own.

  • Mathematics in Machine Learning: Learn the maths behind machine learning, then create a model on a real world dataset to make predictions.

  • Or other topics in this subject area that you are interested in, and that your professor approves after discussing it with you.

Program Detail

  • Cohort size: 6 students maximum

  • Duration: 12 weeks

  • Workload: At least 5 hours per week (not including meeting time)

  • Target students: 9 to 12th graders interested in Mathematics, Computer Science, Machine Learning, and/or Interdisciplinary STEM studies

  • Prerequisites: Basic programming skills are preferred but not mandatory. The students will be provided with materials to supplement their learning.

  • Schedule: TBD (meetings will take place for around one hour per week, with a weekly meeting day and time to be determined a few weeks prior to the class start date)