Mathematical Sciences: Mathematical Models in Materials Science

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The Virginia Tech Summer Experience for Undergraduates in Mathematical Models of Elastic Materials will concentrate on mathematical problems in material science. A broad segment of Virginia Tech's mathematics faculty is involved in research on this subject and that involvement has generated strong research ties to other departments and to industry. The subject is ideal for introducing undergraduates to mathematical research because it applies a wide range of mathematical disciplines to a readily understandable physical setting. Furthermore, it uses foundational undergraduate mathematical techniques in new and challenging ways while pointing to more advanced techniques needed for a deeper understanding. The program will introduce undergraduate students to the mathematical fundamentals of materials science, expose them to a broad variety of mathematical techniques and applications, and guide them in individual and group projects. The following are key components of the program. 1. The program will feature a broad mathematical approach that will expose students to applications of partial differential equations, group theory, and scientific computing. 2. The program will have a strong interdisciplinary component that will expose the students to ideas and language of engineers, geologists, and computer scientists. 3. The program will have a strong industrial component that will expose students to the applications of mathematics in industry and government labs. 4. The program will use its interdisciplinary nature to help students focus on careers in mathematics and the sciences. 5. The program will use distance learning via the internet and teleconferencing to build a team environment among the undergraduate researchers and to help build the foundational skills needed for success in the intensive six-week on-campus session.