MAKING THE QUANTUM LEAP
Jason’s interest in quantum theories LEAD to A career change. After working as a software developer for 15 years, Jason Werry decided to take his career in a new direction in 2010. Little did he know that he would be on his way to becoming a research mathematician just two years later. With a strong interest in the mathematics behind quantum mechanics and prior study experience at UQ, he chose to enrol in UQ’s Master of Science majoring in Mathematics. “I had completed a Bachelor of Science at UQ in 1993 and really liked the environment and the quality of the courses, so when deciding on a university for my Masters degree, UQ was a natural choice,” he said. “The lecturers and facilities here are outstanding and the library is one of the best physical sciences libraries in the southern hemisphere.” During his postgraduate degree Jason worked on projects involving the latest research in mathematics, giving him the knowledge and confidence to take his studies one step further and to commence a PhD. “The course has provided me with a great preparation for a PhD,” he said. For his thesis he is looking at the algebraic structures underlying the interactions of quantum particles. The results of his research may find application in fields such as quantum chemistry which uses computers to model the behaviour of atoms and molecules.
Jason Werry PhD candidate in the field of Mathematics The University of Queensland UQ Qualifications Master of Science (Mathematics) 2011 Bachelor of Science (Computer Science and Mathematics) 1993 SALARY PhD scholarships available – please check with UQ for details
“I do a bit of everything including reviewing literature, learning the required mathematical background and most importantly, talking and thinking about my research topic,” he said. But Jason found that the best ideas sometimes don’t evolve in the library. “I have had two mathematical ‘a-ha’ moments. One while on holiday on the Gold Coast, the other while doing the dishes at home! Each one of these has expanded into important sections of my thesis,” he said. With his research, Jason hopes to further contribute to the investigation of mathematical structures within quantum theories and to start a new career as a research mathematician.
49