University of Adelaide mathematician receives 2022 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist Award

Dr Pitt uses mathematical models to understand the interaction between ocean waves and sea ice in the marginal ice zone. Sea ice models are crucial components of earth system models used to forecast future scenarios for the global climate.

“I hope to inspire and aid my fellow Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people to pursue their potential, as others have for me,''Dr Jordan Pitt

Dr Pitt said he was very honoured to receive the award.

“To me, the award is all about recognition and visibility – recognition being from institutions to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples who have always contributed to Australian society,’’ he said.

“While visibility is important to demonstrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island excellence to the greater public and signal that the door is open for others to follow and pursue their dreams in STEM.

“This award will allow me to collaborate with lead researchers in the field to develop more mathematical models of the interaction between ocean waves and the sea ice that forms in the polar regions of the world. I aim to continue pursuing my passion for mathematical modelling and computational methods to aid in the world’s effort to understand its future climate. As part of this aim I am organising the next session of the International Workshop on the Mathematics of Sea Ice and Ice Sheets.

“I hope to inspire and aid my fellow Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people to pursue their potential, as others have for me. It is also important to me to advocate for that most important but unfortunately last letter in STEM – Mathematics.”

Bestowed by the Australian Academy of Science, the award recognises outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander PhD students and early-mid career scientists, and aims to support their research and the growth of networks and international knowledge through an exchange program.

More information on Dr Pitt’s work can be found here.