POSTPONED: The Mathematics of Knots with Jessica Purcell: Public Lecture

This public lecture has been postponed for the present date. For updates, please subscribe to the SMRI Public Events mailing list.

Since prehistoric times, humans have used knots for their functional and aesthetic value. Knots, links and braids have held decorative, artistic and spiritual significance across a myriad of cultures. For mathematicians, the study of knots has led to insights in disciplines such as geometry and topology.

In this public lecture, Professor Purcell will provide us with an introduction into knot theory and some of its fundamental questions. When is a knot not a knot—how do you know if it can be unknotted? How do you know if two knots are the same? Professor Purcell will share what motivates her research, take a look at some of the modern tools to study knots and describe some of the surprising applications of knot theory, such as quantum physics, synthetic chemistry and molecular biology.

Please note this lecture will take place in-person and will not be recorded. Numbers may be limited, so please register early to avoid disappointment.

The lecture will begin at 18:00. Drinks and canapés will be served after the lecture concludes around 19:00.

Speaker bio: Jessica Purcell is a Professor in the School of Mathematical Sciences and Associate Dean of Research (Faculty of Science) at Monash University. Her research interests are in geometry and topology, with a particular interest in 3-manifolds, hyberbolic geometry and knot theory. Professor Purcell will visit SMRI in late 2021 as part of the Domestic Visitor Program (2020 Round 2 Awardee).

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Larissa Fedunik-Hofman

Communications Coordinator at Sydney Mathematical Research Institute

Larissa received a PhD in solar chemistry at the University of Newcastle in 2021. As a science communicator, she is passionate about science and mathematics outreach and supporting the research ecosystem.

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