Harriet Mason
AMSI Winter School 2024
What is your role in the Mathematical Sciences?
I am currently a PhD student in Statistics within Monash University’s Department of Econometrics and Business Statistics. My research focuses on how to better visualise and communicate uncertainty, and I also contribute to the field by writing statistical software in the programming language R. Alongside my research, I work as a tutor for the department and am currently teaching Introduction to Machine Learning.
As an AMSI alumnus, how did participating in AMSI programs support your career trajectory?
Although I am still completing my PhD and plan to take a short break after submitting, participating in the AMSI Winter School was a turning point in my journey. It came at a difficult stage in my PhD and provided fresh perspectives on my research, both through exposure to new mathematical domains and through discussions with other participants. These conversations helped me better communicate my ideas and reframe parts of my thesis, which ultimately strengthened my work and allowed me to successfully pass my final milestone.
You also received a travel grant to participate in Winter School. We are providing more travel grants for international students to partake in AMSI programs. What words of encouragement would you share with international students to inspire them to take up this opportunity and engage in AMSI programs?
If you have the chance to apply for a travel grant and attend AMSI programs, I strongly encourage you to do it. Australia has a surprisingly high number of well-funded, world-ranked universities given its population size, and programs like AMSI give you access to these opportunities. Engaging with the community here is a fantastic way to grow your knowledge, expand your network, and have an all-around enjoyable experience.
What made the university environment more supportive for you as a female struggling with maths in high school?
I think the difference between high school and university came down to a lot of small things. By the time you reach second-year classes, these students tend to have moved on, and the remaining cohort is largely there because of a genuine interest in mathematics. This makes group work more collaborative and supportive. Another big change was having female lecturers.
What do you hope for the future of mathematics in Australia?
I hope Australia develops a stronger global reputation as a hub for mathematics and related fields, so that researchers and students can build long-term careers here rather than feeling the need to move overseas. Many of my peers have relocated to the USA or Europe for opportunities or shifted into industries like mining or finance to progress their careers. Personally, I would like to stay in Australia, close to my family, friends, and very large dog. It would be far easier to do so if mathematics were more established as a thriving and respected field here.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?
Outside of research, I play State League 1 soccer, which during the season almost feels like a second job. I also enjoy crocheting, often during seminars to keep my hands busy, and I’m currently working on a rainbow jumper for my niece. Reading is another passion of mine, and I like to read the favourite books of my friends and family as a way of understanding their perspectives. Especially since most of my family lives in Queensland.
