What first attracted you to the field of Mathematics?
From a young age, I've been fascinated by nature's workings. After hesitating between biology and physics, I opted for physics and later delved into theoretical physics for my Master's. However, my inclination toward more rigorous approaches led me to mathematics of which I greatly appreciated the abstract thinking and thorough scaffolding.
I found myself captivated by the prospect of studying the fundamental essence of phenomena, employing the logical framework of mathematics. In my spare time, I used to read books suggested by math-major friends and by my maths professors.
My inclinations ultimately led me to pursue a PhD in Dynamical Systems. This field is historically rooted in the rigorous study of equations governing physical phenomena (like the motion of the planets of the waves emitted by radio equipment) and today reaches all areas of science including biology and social sciences, but all abstract disciplines like number theory and geometry.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about Mathematics?
I think the biggest misconception is that mathematics is only about numbers, or that mathematicians should be particularly apt at splitting the bill at the moment of paying for dinner. In reality, mathematics delves into a myriad of abstract concepts that, while often grounded in 'numbers', encapsulate profoundly beautiful ideas crucial for understanding our world. Another related misconception is that there is nothing else to discover in mathematics.
More than once I've found myself confronted with the candid question: "What is left to be discovered in math? Don't we already know everything about numbers?". Even restricting to the branch of mathematics that deals with actual numbers, the answer to the second question is a resounding 'No'.
What's the biggest mystery in science you'd love to solve or see solved?
I would love to shed light on the enigma of complexity. How the intricate interplay of countless components and their interactions determines the emergence and the evolution of complex systems. This is a question encompassing all scales from the microscopic realm of molecules to the grand scales of ecosystems and galaxies. An answer would offer profound insights into how the world that surrounds us work. Tackling this mystery would not only deepen our understanding of the universe but also hold the key to addressing pressing challenges in fields ranging from biology and ecology to technology and economics.
I would also love to see new developments in the fundamental questions of quantum measurement, which is if there is an explanation of why, at a quantum level, an observation changes the behaviour of a system.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying Mathematics?
I would say that they should be patient. In order to get through a Mathematics degree, you need to absorb concepts and get familiar with the techniques required. John von Neumann, one of the greatest mathematicians of the 20th century, reportedly said: "In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them." But to get used to them, you need time a good dose of dedication.
Another piece of advice I would give is to seek the 'click' moment when studying a new definition or theorem. The 'click' is that elusive instance when a concept suddenly makes sense to you. Always try to find that angle, or angles, that make the concepts 'click' in your mind. It is hard to explain what this means and how to achieve it, as it is different for everyone - but you'll now when it happens.
Helpful things to make things 'click' are: Looking at the same things under different perspectives (geometrical, analytical, algebraic), attempting to articulate a concept or a proof in your own words to a peer, and listening to how a peer explains it back to you.
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I love to hike, listen to classical music, and visit local charity shops for good deals on secondhand books.