Launched in March 2019 (and named “Living Proof” in February 2021), the INI podcast series aims to highlight the diverse people and explore the many interconnected topics linked to the Institute’s activities. Interviewees range from visiting academics and lecturers to mathematicians, other scientists, musicians, artists, students, and prominent figures within the University of Cambridge and beyond. The podcast typically involves mathematical themes, but is specifically aimed at a general audience. The focus is on the subjects being interviewed and the social stories they have to tell, not just on the significance and details of the research they may be undertaking. We hope there is interest and inspiration here for everyone.
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Post-doctoral researcher Dr Francisco Sahli discusses his experience of the Institute, the ensuing collaborations and the importance of funding for more junior members of the community
Professor Valerie Isham discusses developments within the science of modeling pandemics, the challenges and surprising benefits of remote working and virtual meetings, and the pervasive fascination of probability and statistics
David Spiegelhalter shares his thoughts on a frenetic six months of risk communication, the pitfalls of “number theatre”, why nobody should be “following the science”
Author Simon Singh tells the podcast all about the new, free “Maths Masterclass Tutorials” initiative
Professor Julia Gog discusses her roles within the UK’s “Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies” and the INI programme “Infectious Dynamics of Pandemics”, being awarded the Rosalind Franklin Award, and trying to beat the board game “Pandemic”
Professor Rebecca Hoyle explains the relevance of study groups during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the thinking behind the Virtual Forum for Knowledge Exchange in Mathematical Sciences [V-KEMS] initiative
Dr Robin Thompson helps explain how data is being used to inform the mathematical models behind the models of COVID-19
Dr Kit Yates discusses the maths behind the models of COVID-19 that are being used to guide policy and help control the pandemic