Background 

This year’s UK Graduate Modelling Camp ran across 5 days in-person from 10th July to 14th July 2023 in Cambridge.  

The Graduate Modelling Camp catered for early career mathematicians, those in the first and second years of their doctoral studies, who were keen to get hands-on experience of mathematical modelling. It was an excellent preparation ground for those who wish to attend the follow-on 5-day European Study Group with Industry (ESGI) 171, hosted by the Maxwell Institute (Heriot-Watt University and University of Edinburgh) and the International Centre for Mathematical Sciences (ICMS) from 17th to 21st July 2023 at Old College, University of Edinburgh. 

As in previous years, the Newton Gateway to Mathematics worked in partnership with the University of Oxford’s Industrially Focused Mathematical Modelling Centre for Doctoral Training (InFoMM) and Professor Chris Breward to facilitate this year’s event. 
 

Aims & Objectives 

A key aim of the modelling camp was to provide early career mathematicians with experience of hands-on mathematical modelling under the guidance of experienced instructors and mentors. This involved working on real-world challenges from industry or science as part of a team. The camp was open to all PhD students and was designed to promote a broad range of problem-solving skills, such as problem assessment, model building, analysis, scientific computation, & critical assessment of solutions. The camp provided experiential learning, rather than delivering any formal training. 

At the start of the camp, the mentors presented a range of challenges. The participants then formed teams to tackle a chosen challenge for the remainder of the camp. Scientific communication was an important part of the camp and each group were expected to make presentations on the final day.  

Mentors and challenges included:

• Chandrasekhar Venkataraman (University of Sussex) - Lipid Raft Formation 
• Ashleigh Hutchinson (University of Cambridge) - Extraction of Sugar from Shredded Cane
• Matthew Shirley (University of Oxford ) - Mathematical Modelling of Blenders and Food Processors – How to Make the Perfect Smoothie
• James Andrews (University Birmingham) - Assessing Different Extraction Methods for Pectin from Fruit Waste: A Sustainable Approach
• Lina Simeonova (University of Kent) - Transport Optimisation in the Steel Industry

Registration & Delegate information 

Registrations for this event are now closed. For any question please contact gateway@newton.ac.uk.

This workshop took place at Robinson College in Cambridge. Programme is available in the left-hand panel. 

By registering for the Modelling Camp, participants agreed to abide by the following Camp Rules. 

1. Treat everyone with respect 

2. Strive to collaborate effectively 

3. Communicate openly 

4. Raise any issues as soon as possible with your mentor or the organising team 

5. Share tasks fairly 

6. Value diversity and promote a welcoming environment