What are your research interests?
Most of my research at FAU has been in Applied Mathematics. Other research interests lie in Computational Mathematics, Cryptography, Number Theory, and Applied Algebra.
What are your past/current research projects?
Most of my research projects have been in cryptography, specifically, lattice-based cryptography. I constructed two digital signature schemes over lattices. In addition, I have been working on projects that have involved difficult computational problems such as SIS, LWE, NTRU problems.
Tell us about your research experiences, i.e., conference presentations, publications, research ventures with faculty, other students?
I have greatly enjoyed working with the faculty in the deartment of Mathematics and Statistics, and have a publication on digital signature schemes. I have enjoyed being a member of the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM) while a student at FAU, and have participated in several AWM Mathematics Day events. I have also enjoyed presenting my research to the women in the AWM. Mostly, I have enjoyed developing important research relationships with faculty, colleagues and my peers at FAU. Getting to know everyone in the department was so important, and from there, I was able to develop research initiatives with many of them over time.
What’s life like at FAU?
My life at FAU has been life-giving and has allowed me to meet people from all over the world, and to travel and see much of the United States. Most important has been the development of strong relationships with the supportive and friendly faculty. Though my academic life at FAU has been very busy, I have always enjoyed etching out some time to go and enjoy the beautiful beaches here in Palm Beach County.
What attracted you to FAU?
Initially, I was attracted to FAU for the opportunity to continue my higher studies. The programs and research areas offered in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics were of interest to me. Also, I like the south Florida weather! The climate is very similar to the climate in my home country Sri Lanka. After researching the FAU mathematics department website, identifying faculty with research in Applied Algebra, and learning about the FAU community, I knew FAU would be a great fit for me. I decided to come to Florida to pursue the Ph.D. in mathematics at FAU!
What has been the most beneficial aspect of your time here at FAU?
The most beneficial aspect of my time at FAU has been the faculty in the department who have supported me in my studies. The relationships I have formed with the faculty at FAU have strengthened over the years, and will remain strong as I continue along my path in the field of mathematics. I have met so many people from all over the world, but was especially happy to have met new friends from my home country of Sri Lanka. As a new student at FAU, my new friends from my home country of Sri Lanka helped me to pursue my higher studies while still allowing me to enjoy the people and culture of my home so far away.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I have just recently taken a position at Nicholls State University. There, I will be teaching undergraduate students math courses including College Algebra, Pre-calculus and Trigonometry. To hold a position as a faculty member in a department of mathematics, and to continue to research in the areas of Computational Mathematics, Cryptography, and Applied Algebra would complete this dream of mine. FAU, the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, and the faculty in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics have helped me to build a strong foundation and have set me on my path toward my goal of becoming a math professor. Thank you FAU!
