DR BISHNU LAMICHHANE
The University of Newcastle
We talk to Dr Bishnu Lamichhane about using mathematics to solve real-life problems in STEM fields and his biggest achievement to date
1. How do you explain your work and its real-world impact to people outside of the mathematical sciences?
Main focus of my work is to approximate solutions of mathematical problems using computers. I am interested in real-life problems arising from applications in science, engineering, medicine and other fields. I have developed some approximation techniques that are useful in analysing solid deformation under external forces. These techniques are applied in crash simulation. I have worked in areas of solid and fluid mechanics, signal processing and data approximations. Recently, I am working with people in cancer research, material science and physics.
2. What drives your interest in this field? What do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
The beauty of mathematics and its power in applications attracted me in the field of mathematics. I have developed many efficient approximation techniques for linear and non-linear elasticity equations, which are applied in engineering applications like crash simulations.
3. What are the next interesting “big questions” or challenges you hope to tackle?
I like to develop a new flexible approximation method for multi-field and multi-phase problems and introduce a unified approach to solve real-life problems with uncertainty. These are challenging problems for the modern time. I am also interested in applying my approximation techniques to industrial problems arising from engineering and medical applications.
4. If not mathematics research, what would have been your path?
Before I went to study mathematics, I was interested in medicine or engineering fields, where I thought my innovations would be used for the benefits of the public. I have now a strong interest in the holistic approach to life with a deep understanding of effect of our actions to others and environment as well as having a peaceful and fulfilling life for all living beings.
5. Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Focus on the present and forget the rest.
6. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Rock star scientist, master chef, closet artist, what is something about you that might surprise people?
If I could have any superpower, I would use this power to remove the unnecessary pain and suffering on the earth. It may or may not surprise people but most of my mathematical knowledge is gained through self-study.
7. Deepening field knowledge and providing a networking platform, why are opportunities such as AMSI Summer School so valuable? What do you hope attendees will take from your lectures?
It is very important to focus on the subject students are interested in and prepare a path for future research. At the Summer School they have access to researchers in many different areas of mathematics. They can exploit this important opportunity to find a right career path and expand their horizons.
AMSI Summer School also provides opportunities for connecting with colleagues of similar interests. My finite element course will prepare students for applications and open a path for a PhD in the finite element method.
8. If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
I would be meditating in a quiet place.
Dr Bishnu Lamichhane will be presenting the topic The Finite Element Method at the 2020 Summer School at La Trobe University in January.
