Doctor of Philosophy (SMAS)

Overview

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidates undertake in-depth research in order to make an original contribution to the body of knowledge in mathematical or statistical studies.  This qualification can lead to, or enhance, an academic career and is highly regarded by private and public sector employers.

Entry Requirements/Assumed Knowledge

A four-year Honours Bachelor degree in any relevant area of Mathematics or Statistics (Class II, Division 2 or higher); or a Master of Science – Research (Mathematics) or (Statistics) with a strong performance in the 48 credit point thesis, or equivalent.

Course Requirements

This program is 100% by thesis (carrying weighting of 48 credit points per year).  Students may be required to attend lectures in relevant topics on occasion throughout the program.

Current Research Areas

Engineering and Applied Mathematics

• Applied non-linear dynamical systems
  
• Bioreactor engineering
  
• Chemical reaction engineering
  
• Combustion theory
  
• Computational environmental fluid dynamics
  
• Computational mathematics
  
• Elasticity and fracture mechanics
  
• Granular materials
  
• Lie group analysis of non-linear differential equations
• Microwave heating
  
• Nanotechnology
  
• Non-linear continuum mechanics including large elastic deformations of rubber-like materials
  
• Non-linear waves
  
• Oceanography
  
• Rail development

Statistical and Survey Methodology

• e-Education
  
• Epidemiology
  
• Experimental design
  
• Goodness of fit
  
• Image analysis
  
• Multivariate analysis
  
• Neural networks
  
• Nonparametrics
  
• Quasi-likelihood
  
• Sample survey design, analysis and methodology
  
• Spatial statistics
  
• Statistical decision theory
  
• Statistical quality control
  
• Time series analysis

Mathematical Analysis

• Algebra
  
• Analysis
  
• Harmonic analysis and wavelets
  
• Group theory
  
• Topology and chaos
  
• Logic and partial differential equations
  
• Topological groups
  
• Measure theory
  
• Number theory
  
• Functional analysis
  
• Combinatorial designs
• Mathematical Finance

Other Information 

It is possible to downgrade enrolment from a PhD to a Master of Science - Research, with the permission of the Head of School.