High School Students Conduct Mathematical Epidemiology on COVID-19, Cancer at Adelphi
Garden City, NY (11/17/2022) — In summer 2022, 25 Long Island high school students conducted original research at Adelphi University in mathematical epidemiology, focusing on COVID-19 and cancer. Led by University professors, the six-week program, Adelphi Summer Institute in Mathematical Epidemiology (ASIME), was tailored to the interests of each participant.
"Through ASIME, students carried out authentic research problems from start to finish, developing technical skills in the process that will transfer to any career they may choose,'' said Anil Venkatesh, PhD, assistant professor of mathematics and computer science, an organizer of the program. "Even more important, they witnessed in their own work how mathematics can help us tackle some of the most pressing public health problems of the present day."
Learning from Industry Experts, Making Discoveries
In addition to conducting research, the students attended lectures on how basic probability theory is encountered in everyday life and in epidemiological models for infectious diseases, the evolutionary theory of cancer, and how math can be used to help solve large-scale problems, such as deforestation resulting from climate change.
According to Josh Hiller, PhD, assistant professor of mathematics and computer science, another program organizer, students worked on research projects in teams of three or four. One team determined that vaccines prevented as many as 1.5 million infections in the early days of the pandemic in New York State. Another group presented a statistical analysis of cancer incidence. A third team, comprising students interested in data science, gathered and analyzed data on policies related to tobacco consumption.
The 2022 ASIME was supported by the School Science Advancement Program for the New York State Science Technology Entry Program at Adelphi (SSA/NYSSTEP), which provided tuition for 10 students of color or limited incomes. An external grant from the American Mathematical Society provided additional support.
At the end of the program, Venkatesh was impressed with the dedication shown by every ASIME participant. "Our students chose to spend half their summer vacations learning advanced mathematics, wrestling with obstinate computer code, and honing their skills in teamwork and professionalism. It is truly an honor to support the careers of such dedicated young scientists."
ASIME will be offered to high school students again in Summer 2023.
Learn more about Adelphi's mathematics and computer science degree programs and summer courses for high school students.
About Adelphi: A modern metropolitan university with a personalized approach to higher learning
Adelphi University, New York, is a highly awarded, nationally ranked, powerfully connected doctoral research university dedicated to transforming students' lives through small classes with world-class faculty, hands-on learning and innovative ways to support academic and career success. Adelphi offers exceptional liberal arts and sciences programs and professional training, with particular strength in our Core Four: Arts and Humanities, STEM and Social Sciences, the Business and Education Professions, and Health and Wellness.
Recognized as a Best College by U.S. News & World Report, Adelphi is Long Island's oldest private coeducational university. It serves more than 7,250 students at its beautiful main campus in Garden City, New York -- just 23 miles from New York City's cultural and internship opportunities -- and at dynamic learning hubs in Manhattan, the Hudson Valley and Suffolk County, as well as online.
More than 118,000 Adelphi graduates have gained the skills to thrive professionally as active, engaged citizens, making their mark on the University, their communities and the world.
###
Media Attachments
Adelphi University's Summer Institute in Mathematical Epidemiology (ASIME) program welcomed high school students to its campus.
Adelphi University's Summer Institute in Mathematical Epidemiology (ASIME) flyer for summer 2023.