Math + Computers = Summer Research

Geometric shapes and graph theory, wireless sensor networks and grid computing–these emerging fields in math and computer science will be the focus of select faculty-student research teams over the next three summers at Lewis & Clark.

The research teams, funded by a $108,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, will bring together two faculty members, four undergraduate students, and one K-12 or community college teacher.

“It’s a great program because it allows students to see how mathematicians work collaboratively, says Liz Stanhope, assistant professor of mathematical sciences. “It breaks down the stereotype of mathematicians working alone and gives undergraduate students and teachers a chance to get their hands dirty doing research.”

Lewis & Clark’s grant is part of a larger NSF grant that was awarded to a consortium of four math programs, led by professors at Willamette University. In addition to the programs at Willamette and Lewis & Clark, faculty members at the University of Portland and Linfield College will also lead research programs. 

This summer, Lewis & Clark participants will work with Stanhope or with Jens Mache, associate professor of computer science.