REU Site: Computation, Combinatorics and Number Theory.

Clemson University, Clemson SC

Investigators

Abstract

Undergraduate students who have a solid background in mathematics and some knowledge of computation will be engaged in an eight-week research experience in computational number theory and combinatorics to be held at Clemson University. Members of underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply. Preference for four of these positions will be given to qualified applicants who have roots in the Southeastern United States, provided that there are a sufficient number of qualified applicants from this region. The participants will be offered up to $400 in travel support, a dorm room to be shared with other participants in the REU, up to $800 for meals and a stipend of $2,900 in return for their participation in this program. Participants will be introduced to various tools, techniques and problems from computational number theory and combinatorics. The participants will be divided into teams of two or three and will pick one problem on which to focus for the remainder of the REU. The goal of the program is to help students attain a higher level of independence in mathematical research by giving them the opportunity to take part in a significant and interesting research project. Students will also be encouraged to attend appropriate conferences and present their work there. As a complement to working on their research, students will be required to attend a weekly lecture series. These lectures will be given by faculty who have been recognized as leaders in the various fields related to the students' research problems and who have demonstrated the ability to clearly communicate mathematical ideas to audiences of varying levels of mathematical maturity.