Primer for Undergraduate Research: From Groups and Tiles to Frames and Vaccines

This book is a valuable resource for undergraduate students who are interested in starting research in mathematics. It provides a diverse range of self-contained articles with open problems and references, covering topics that are not typically covered in undergraduate curricula. The articles are written by experienced researchers and are suitable for students at different stages of their academic careers, from starting a thesis to preparing for graduate school.

Format: Hardback
Length: 313 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2018
Publisher: Birkhauser Verlag AG

This comprehensive and easily accessible book is designed to provide a solid foundation for students embarking on undergraduate research. It achieves this by presenting a diverse range of self-contained articles, each focusing on a specific open problem and providing ample background material and references to facilitate the reader's understanding. Additionally, each article includes a carefully curated bibliography for further exploration.

The content of this book spans the vast realm of mathematics, encompassing a wide array of topics that may not typically be covered in undergraduate curricula, such as matroid theory, mathematical biology, and operations research. However, these topics are chosen carefully to have minimal prerequisites, allowing interested students to delve into them with guidance from faculty members. Whether students are embarking on writing an undergraduate thesis, participating in a summer research program (REU), or preparing for graduate school, this book serves as a valuable resource for all.

The book is organized into several sections, each addressing different aspects of undergraduate research. The first section provides an introduction to the field, discussing the importance of research, the research process, and the skills required to succeed. It also offers guidance on finding research opportunities and selecting appropriate projects.

The second section focuses on specific topics within mathematics, such as algebra, number theory, geometry, and analysis. Each article in this section provides an in-depth exploration of the topic, covering fundamental concepts, recent developments, and applications. The articles are written by experts in the field, ensuring that the content is both accurate and up-to-date.

The third section of the book addresses interdisciplinary research, which involves collaboration between mathematics and other fields such as physics, computer science, biology, and engineering. This section explores the benefits of interdisciplinary research, the challenges involved, and the strategies for successful collaboration. The articles in this section provide examples of successful interdisciplinary projects and highlight the contributions of mathematicians to various fields.

Throughout the book, numerous examples and exercises are provided to illustrate the concepts discussed. These examples help the reader to apply the knowledge gained and develop a deeper understanding of the topics. Additionally, the book includes a glossary of important terms and a comprehensive index for easy reference.

In conclusion, this book is an invaluable resource for students who are interested in pursuing undergraduate research in mathematics. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, covering a wide range of topics and offering guidance on every step of the research process. Whether students are looking to start an undergraduate thesis, embark on a summer research program, or prepare for graduate school, this book will be a valuable companion.

Weight: 634g
Dimension: 164 x 245 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783319660646
Edition number: 1st ed. 2017