Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

School of Mathematical Sciences

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Research centre

Primary Supervisor

Dr Elliot Carr
Position
Senior Lecturer
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Science

Overview

This project will focus on the study of general deterministic (continuum partial differential equation) and/or stochastic (discrete random walk) models of advection, diffusion and reaction, concepts used widely in science and engineering to describe how physical quantities move, interact and evolve within a physical medium. In particular, the project will look to develop and apply mathematical techniques to improve the simulation and/or understanding of advection diffusion reaction phenomena.

See Dr Carr's personal research website for more information about his research. Specific examples of past student projects that he has supervised can be found here.

Research engagement

The project will be self-contained. The scope and size of the project will be tailored to the VRES program and will be personalised to the skills and experience of the student.

Research activities

You can expect to:

  • meet weekly with Dr Carr to discuss and progress your project
  • solve mathematical problems using pen and paper
  • develop code in MATLAB, run simulations and generate results
  • document your work and results in written form
  • receive regular feedback on your work

Research skills

You can expect to:

  • experience mathematical research first-hand
  • expand your skills and knowledge in applied and computational mathematics
  • improve your MATLAB programming skills
  • develop your mathematical writing and communication skills
  • explore whether you want to pursue further research studies (e.g. Master of Philosophy degree)

Outcomes

While there is no expectation of producing novel work, you will be expected to submit a final copy of your research (document and code) to Dr Carr at the completion of the project.

Skills and experience

Some experience with MATLAB and differential equations is required. No previous experience in stochastic modelling is required.

Ideally, you will be a second or third year Bachelor of Mathematics student majoring in applied and computational mathematics (or equivalent double degree student) who is interested in using VRES as a stepping stone to a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree in 2027 or 2028.

Start date

2 November, 2026

End date

19 February, 2027

Location

QUT Gardens Point Campus

Additional information

Listed start and end dates are tentative, flexible and can accommodate periods of absence (Note however that projects must be conducted sometime between 2 November 2026 and 19 February 2027).

To express your interest in this project, please send Dr Carr an email using the contact details below.

Keywords

Contact

Dr Elliot Carr

31386979

elliot.carr@qut.edu.au