Opportunities for math and computer science students

Undergraduate research

Applications for Summer 2025 opening Dec. 1st, 2025

Information on opportunities listed below.

Dr. G. Cruttwell

Category theory

As you learn more mathematics, you start to notice that there are many different aspects of the subject. Calculus, modern algebra, probability, optimization, graph theory - each of these subjects can start to look very different. On the other hand, Category theory, the area of mathematics I study, allows one to see how different aspects of mathematics can be related to one another, allowing one to transfer ideas, theorems, and proofs between the different areas. Because of this, category theory can be quite rewarding. However, it is also a very abstract type of mathematics, and can take a while to wrap your head around. For this reason, if you would like to do research in this area, you will need an A- in better in at least one of Math 3111 (Real Analysis), Math 3221 (Advanced linear algebra), Math 3211 (Modern Algebra I), or Math 4221 (Modern Algebra II), and preferably more than one.

If you would like to learn more, I'd be happy to discuss ideas for either summer research project or honours theses in category theory; please come talk to me before applying.

Dr. M. Hamilton

Symmetry in Geometry

Many problems in mathematics and physics can be simplified using symmetry: It is easier to work with a sphere than a randomly lumpy blob. Symmetry is expressed mathematically in the language of group actions, which give a precise way of quantifying the different "types" of symmetry that a system or object may possess. Group actions on geometric objects have been studied for a long time, and much is known about them.

Recently I have worked with a slightly different way of expressing symmetry, using a local group action. This is similar to a group action but more general: There are objects that do not admit a group action, but have symmetry that can be expressed as a local group action.

This project looks at known properties of group actions on "manifolds" (which are like surfaces in higher dimensions) and sees which ones extend to the more general case of local group actions. Last year I had a student start on this, and prove that one theorem from group actions on manifolds extends to local group actions. I am looking for a student to continue this work.

Necessary background for this project is Modern Algebra and Multivariable Calculus; Vector Calculus would be an asset.

Dr. M. Messinger

Bootstrap percolation on graphs

The discrete-time process of r-neighbour bootstrap percolation models the spread of a contagion on a graph using the following rule: if an uninfected vertex has at least r infected neighbours, then it becomes infected. Percolation occurs if, eventually, every vertex is infected.

To begin the process, a set of vertices is initially infected -- usually chosen uniformly at random with probability p. This initial set of infected vertices is called a percolating set if percolation occurs. The extremal question asks: for a given graph, what is the smallest size of a percolating set? The question is difficult and results are known for only a small number of graph classes. I am interested in hiring a student to work with me over the summer to answer this question for additional graph classes.

To be considered for this position, a student will need to have received at least a B in MATH/COMP 2211 (Discrete Structures). Enrolment in MATH 3251 (Winter 2026) will be an asset, but is not required.

Dr. N. Johnston

Mathematics of quantum entanglement

Quantum entanglement refers to the ability for small particles to interact with each other in very strange and unintuitive ways that can't be explained by classical physics. Mathematically, entanglement between two particles is represented by a matrix with certain additional "positivity" properties. My research focuses on exploring the mathematical properties of quantum entanglement, typically using computational tools or tools from linear algebra and matrix analysis. Do you like determinants? Do you like eigenvalues? Do you like writing code that searches for counterexamples to linear algebraic conjectures? Then this is the project for you!

Students should have a strong understanding of linear algebra (at least Math 2221, though Math 3221 would be an asset) and how mathematical proof are written (Comp/Math 2211). No physics background is required.

Dr. M. Betti

My research program uses mathematical tools to gain insight into ecological, evolutionary, and epidemiological phenomena. Typically, this is done through the study of dynamical systems (ODEs, PDEs). These insights are made relevant by developing statistical methods for interfacing these non-linear dynamical system models with sparse, often opportunistic data. Students wishing to participate in this research should have a working knowledge of ODE/PDE systems and their analysis, concepts from dynamical systems (equilibria, local stability, global stability), or strong statistical skills. Programming in Python or R is an asset.

Dr. P. Lelievre

I research geophysical inverse problems that help us understand many things about the Earth. This work is highly interdisciplinary and requires skills in mathematics and computer science. I have a summer position available where you would be developing open source software to help solve micromagnetic inverse problems. That software will help researchers across the world answer questions about the origin of natural magnetism in the Earth. My secondary interest for this project is learning about how to best harness AI to develop code for high performance computations and for creating attached GUI software. A successful candidate for this position would be self-motivated, have strong programming skills, and a solid background in linear algebra and optimization. Experience digesting mathematical methods in scientific publications would be an asset, as would experience with using AI for complicated coding tasks. The language of development is up for discussion.

Becoming a tutor

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science helps students looking for math or computer science tutors connect with students interested in tutoring.

If you are interested in becoming a tutor, please contact the Department at math@mta.ca to express your interest and indicate your availability.

Becoming a teaching assistant

Mathematics and Math/Comp Sci Help Center positions

Submit your application by completing the Math TA Application Form.

Applications for WINTER 2026 positions NOW OPEN.

APPLY

E-mail math@mta.ca for more information.

Computer science positions

Submit your application by completing the Comp Sci TA Application Form.

For information you can email comp-ta@mta.ca

Applications coming soon for Winter 2026

There will be a workshop for all new TAs during the first week of classes.

Please note that you must have a valid Social Insurance Number to work as a TA.

If you have any questions about the TA positions, please e-mail the appropriate address above.

Teaching assistant certificate

To be awarded in their graduating year to undergraduate students who have successfully completed the following requirements:

Be a TA responsible for labs (excludes marking only) in at least two different math or computer science courses, for a full semester each.
Attend a TA orientation session offered by the Department or a comparable workshop.
Enhance the teaching of a course in some concrete way with consultation and under the supervision of the course instructor. For example, the TA could:
- present a short segment of supplementary material in a lab session
- prepare a short hand-out (or web posting) featuring problems of a type observed to cause difficulties in the lab
- contribute to the creation of lab material
- offer a pre-test or pre-exam review session

Otherwise demonstrate good judgement, mature teaching ability, and involvement in curriculum enhancement.

Course instructors (faculty) or lab supervisors (staff member) must also sign off with comments upon successful completion of this requirement. TAs hoping to fulfill this requirement in a particular semester and those closest to their graduation date will be given priority.

Procedure

Obtain an application form from the Math/CS office, the first year you work as a TA. (For current TAs, do this as soon as possible.)
Complete and return the updated form to the office each year before March 15.
Certificates are awarded each year at the annual Departmental banquet.
A record is kept on file of those awarded certificates; with the student's permission, this information may be used in letters of reference written on the student's behalf.

Departmental Awards & Scholarships

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offers a variety of departmental awards and scholarships.

Current students will automatically be considered for departmental scholarships and awards if they meet the criteria. These scholarships and awards do not require an application and are generally given out during the fall term.

Every bit of information we have on your extracurricular activities can help us make the most informed decision, however.

Please tell us what type(s) of extracurricular activities (i.e. music, athletics, student government, clubs, off and on-campus activities and volunteer work, summer research, conferences etc….) you participate in.