Sherry Sarkar (she/her)
Mellon College of Science
PhD in Mathematical Sciences: Algorithms, Combinatorics, and Optimization (ACO)
Hometown: Cupertino, CAlifornia
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Briefly describe the work you’re doing as a doctoral student in the math department.
I work in combinatorial optimization. Some good examples of this would be: when you open up Google Maps to go from Point A to Point B, how does Google Maps compute the fastest route for you? Or, if we're trying to match residents to residency programs, what's the best assignment of people to jobs that makes the most people happy? Shortest paths and assignments are both examples of discrete math structures that were interesting with regard to optimizing over. There's rich combinatorial theory that allows us to develop neat and provably optimal algorithms for these types of problems. And this is the flavor of work I like to do!
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How did you develop an interest in this area?
I grew up in a tech-y area. I was fortunate enough to have a lot of math education around me. Eventually I developed a knack for proofs and computer science, and most importantly, found a community where I belonged.
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Along with your academic work, you organize a weekly event called the Grad Student and Postdoc Math Seminar (GSPS). Can you briefly describe this event, and the impact it’s had on you and other attendees?
GSPS is a weekly seminar. A grad student or postdoc will give an introductory talk on their research, and then we all enjoy some catered dinner together. This consistent, educational, free food event has fostered such a strong community. It provides a base for us to collaborate, learn math, get to know each other, and just generally hang out. It's been one of the main reasons I feel like I belong in the math department.
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How do you spend your time beyond academic work?
I'm a huge gym rat and climber! Climbing rocks (plastic or real) is the adult version of being on a playground, for me. I also love dance, cooking/eating food, and fostering cats.
