Undergraduate Research in Mathematics

1
Undergraduate Research in Mathematics
Glenn Ledder Department of Mathematics University
of Nebraska-Lincoln gledder_at_math.unl.edu
2
Research in Mathematics

• Original cant find the answer with Google
• Open-ended not clear where to start / where to
  go
• Abstract function properties, not formulas
• General all cases considered
• Thorough no loose ends
• Important judged publishable by the math
  community

3
Undergraduate Research

• Original cant find the answer with Google
• Open-ended not clear where to start / where to
  go
• somewhat Abstract
• somewhat General
• Give up Thorough and Important

4
Requirements for Success

• Assume enthusiasm, energy, ability
• Students also need
• Preparation deep background knowledge
• Maturity ability to cope with confusion
• More direction than grad students
• Ownership personal connection to problem
• As much independence as is practical
• Commitment enough time for the job