Case studies: Postdoctoral research associate: Jason Hughes

The research part of Jason's job involves using mathematics to solve engineering and scientific problems. Jason enjoys the variety, learning new things and the challenge of it all.

Jason received a BSc in Mathematics from the University of Plymouth. He went on to complete a PhD in Applied Mathematics (Rheology) from the University of Plymouth as well, and after graduation, he was offered a research position with the mathematics department there.

My undergraduate maths degree gave me a very broad skill base. I studied a range of courses in mathematical and numerical methods where these methods were used to solve mathematical problems. I continue to use these methods in my postdoctoral research and further develop my knowledge of them.

At postgraduate level, my mathematical skills were built upon and applied to engineering modelling applications. I also spent a significant portion of my time writing computer programs to solve problems. My knowledge and experience in computer programming and modelling is particularly helpful in my current research.

After studying mathematics and seeing the range of applications where it can be used, I knew I wanted a career in this field. I wanted a career where I would be using mathematics to model and solve problems in science and engineering. I also have a keen interest in teaching, so I wanted to find an academic position where I could teach as well as carry out research.

I currently work as a research associate in the maths department at the University of Plymouth. The main application areas where I have been carrying out mathematical modelling have changed several times, so I have been introduced to new subjects and am constantly learning new skills.

I also teach undergraduate students, and the amount of teaching I do has gradually increased. The teaching is an aspect of my job that I find rewarding. I enjoy meeting the students and helping them with any problems they may have. This part of the job involves writing notes, setting coursework and exams and marking scripts. You need to enjoy helping others when teaching mathematics, as some students may find aspects of the subject difficult.

The research part of my job involves using mathematics to solve engineering and scientific problems. I enjoy the variety, learning new things and the challenge of it all. It is satisfying when tasks are completed successfully. I like the atmosphere in an academic environment and being able to have flexible working hours when needed. I also like being able to manage my own time and deciding the order I need to complete any tasks - obviously subject to any deadlines that need to be met.

Research does involve a lot of working alone, so you need to be the type of person who is happy about this. I also have to be organised and self-motivated which can mean some evening and weekend work in order to meet my deadlines. The nature of the work also means I end up thinking about my research even when not at work. My long-term career aims are to continue working in the academic area, carrying out research as well as teaching.