Yuanyuan Zhao
Ph.D.
Mathematics
My research areas focus on control and inverse problems for partial differential equations on quantum graphs, of which I am interested in both the theoretical and application aspects.
How did you initially become interested in your specific field of study?
I was an adjunct instructor at the Math department and had a lot of fun interactions with full time and part time faculty members there. I had some good discussions with Dr. Sergei Avdonin before he became my PhD advisor.
What attracted you to pursue graduate studies at UAF?
I am a long time Fairbanksan and a professional civil engineer by trade. UAF is a
big part of my intellectual life. I started to work with
Dr. Sergei Avdonin after we found an interesting topic that can lead to a
PhD study in Mathematics.
What motivates you? What do you think is important about your work?
I am motivated by pursuing elegant solutions to the problems I encounter. My PhD work has its novelty in mathematics but also has many direct and indirect applications in engineering and applied sciences. My research at UAF has enabled me to teach many college courses as well as seek and obtain funding through NSF to work at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where I developed my interests this spring.
Have you faced any challenges in your pursuit of graduate studies?
I was not a traditional student in mathematics, which did give me some challenges. What helped me was the unbiased, supportive environment from the Math department.
What are the next steps in your career?
I currently practice engineering in Fairbanks and don't have a plan to move. After completing my degree I plan to advance my math research in several directions, including bridging with engineering. I will continue to pursuit elegant solutions to the problems I encounter, whether in math or in engineering.
What advice would you give to incoming or current graduate students?
I would say focus on work/life balance and think beyond the thesis and dissertation work.