Sophia Marx

Welcome! I am a PhD candidate in mathematics at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and am on the job market in Fall 2026. I am currently advised by Owen Gwilliam and Rajan Mehta, and am a member of the WIT project "2-Segal Conditions in Higher Categories" led by Julie Bergner and Lyne Moser.

My research is motivated by an interest in topological quantum field theory and various related algebraic structures, and I have strong interests in higher algebra, (higher) category theory, and homotopy theory/algebraic topology in general.

I believe in promoting a broadly-accessible, human-centered approach to all modes of mathematical inquiry (including, but not limited to: research, teaching, casual experimentation, and general metacognition).

Ask me a math question! semarx(at)umass(dot)edu

I believe strongly in the excellent mathematician and educator Federico Ardilla Mantilla's now-famous Axioms, which I introduce to all of my classes. They are quoted here below (emphasis is my own):

Axiom 1. Mathematical potential is equally present in different groups, irrespective of geographic, demographic, and economic boundaries.

Axiom 2. Everyone can have joyful, meaningful, and empowering mathematical experiences.

Axiom 3. Mathematics is a powerful, malleable tool that can be shaped and used differently by various communities to serve their needs.

Axiom 4. Every student deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.