Andrew Nagel Colloquium

Fri. Oct. 27 12:30 PM - Fri. Oct. 27 01:20 PM
Location: 3M69 & via Zoom

From “Pencil-to-Paper" Mathematics to Data Science: A Journey Bridging Math, Physics, and Computing 

In the ever-expanding landscape of scientific exploration, the integration of mathematical/physical rigor with the versatility of computer science unlocks endless possibilities. This presentation traces my journey from a foundation in traditional “pencil-to-paper” mathematics to scientific computing/data science, highlighting the potential of this interdisciplinary fusion.  

The presentation begins by exploring my graduate study applications in biophysics, where mathematical and physical principles are traditionally leveraged for research. From studying the collective motion of bacteria to investigating the nanoparticle sorting properties of microfluidic devices, I demonstrate the impact of computational methods, specifically molecular dynamics simulations and deep learning. The capability of deep learning is further emphasized in my post-doctoral research, where convolutional neural networks are utilized for automated mapping solutions from multispectral satellite images. These deep learning models classify each pixel within an image, thereby generating “linear disturbance” maps for monitoring of habitat fragmentation and informing forest management.  

Through these diverse research projects, this presentation highlights the modeling prowess and the efficacy of computational techniques, exemplifying the seamless transition from theoretical constructs to practical real-world applications. This journey also underscores how the amalgamation of mathematical and physical backgrounds with a computational skillset opens doors to careers in data science—a thriving field spanning numerous industries. 

Bio: Dr. Andrew M. Nagel is a multifaceted researcher who currently serves as a postdoctoral fellow in machine learning at the University of Winnipeg. He completed his Ph.D. in Mathematical Modelling and Computational Science at Ontario Tech University, where he published research in the field of computational biophysics. Cultivated during his bachelor’s degree in mathematics at the University of Guelph, Dr. Nagel's strong mathematical foundation is complemented by his experience in the dramatic arts. His unique background blends the power of computer science, precision of mathematics, and the artistry of storytelling, paving the way for innovative and impactful contributions to the world of data-driven and computational research. 

For a zoom invitation to this event, please email an.wiebe@uwinnipeg.ca