Seminar

How are the prime numbers distributed among the integers? This question has been one of the greatest motivations to study math for multiple millennia. We'll try to tap in to some of this excitement, and also introduce some relations with the Riemann zeta function. 

I will present a simple proof of the Wallis formula using basic concepts of calculus.

There is an impending doom that the undead will once again populate the Earth. In this talk, I will describe the mathematics behind this invasion. First, using scientific zombie data, I will discuss and analyze the population dynamics of zombie infestations and how it may be possible to overcome them. After, I will talk about some advances in the science of Vampirology with former Pitt math major Jackie Ruchti. In the presence of vampire killers, oscillations can emerge between the populations of vampires and their victims.

An introduction to the `Box Product Problem', its connection with
nabla products, and an overview of recent results with Hector Barriga
Acosta (UNAM Morelia).

Abstract:

Number fields with a given Galois group often come in polynomial families.  I compare the two main theoretic approaches to such families with empirical studies, suggesting opportunities overlooked due to exclusive focus on best-possible outcomes or simplest normal forms.