Alyssa Petroski

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

1.     Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing?

I am working with Dr. Michael Robert on a mathematical biology project this summer. We use differential equations to model populations of Aedes aegypti mosquitos, and we use our mathematical model to simulate mosquito control techniques. 

 2.     What do you find fascinating in the research you’re doing?

I like my research because I can apply what I’ve learned in my advanced math classes to real-world scenarios I wouldn’t traditionally see in my physics courses. I also really like how my research is heavily interdisciplinary. I believe there is so much to learn from other disciplines. 

 3.     What skills are you learning through the USURF experience?

I am learning how to draw conclusions myself from results and how to best present results in writing. On top of that I am constantly refining my coding skills!

 4.     What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research?

Anyone who’s ever written code knows it can be frustrating, especially when one small mistake can be the source of a major error. I am also working on writing up my project, which is difficult and not as exciting as working on simulations, so that is another challenge. 

5.     How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field?

USURF gave me the opportunity to dedicate a lot of time to a project I’ve been on for almost two years that is also outside of my home discipline, physics. I really appreciate the ability to work on something I wouldn’t get to otherwise. My mathematical biology project gives me a more diverse set of skills I can use in physics.

 6.     Tell us something interesting about yourself.

Since all of my work involves just a computer, I usually do my research at home. I consider my cat my best (and only) coworker.