Joanna Bieri Ph.D.

My favorite thing about being an applied mathematician is that I am constantly exploring new application areas and learning new things. Thus, my research interests are extremely varied. My PhD work, funded by NASA, consisted of developing mathematical models for edge-flames in microgravity and numerical solutions to these nonlinear partial differential equations. This work studied how flames confined to small spaces have extinction and re-ignition patterns along the flame chamber. After joining the University of Redlands, I started working in ecological modeling as part of a group supported by the National Institute for Modeling Biological Systems. This work was focused on quantifying the value of migrating animals as the cross geographic boundaries with a focus on developing conservation and management plans. We developed code for generalized mathematical models and metrics that can be used widely by USGS scientists. My most recent interests are in the areas of machine learning and data science. This work started as an effort to provide my students data-focused learning in class but quickly expanded. As the faculty lead for data science on campus, I developed a Bachelor of Arts in Data Science in 2024. My interests are varied, but they include analyzing high-dimensional data, autoencoders, and transformers.

• Ph.D., Engineering Science and Applied Mathematics, Northwestern University
• M.S., Engineering Science and Applied Mathematics, Northwestern University
• B.S., Math and Physics, Northern Arizona University

• Adjunct Researcher, Center for Communications Research, LaJolla CA, summers 2020-present
• Lecturer, Northwestern University , Evanston IL 2008-2009
• Research Assistant - NASA Fellowship, Northwestern University, Evanston IL 2005-2008
• Consultant - GCRCsim, Grans Canyon National Park, AZ, 2003-2004