As a student in Mathematics and Computer Science, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to research that shapes the future of technology, data and scientific discovery. Our faculty-led research spans a variety of disciplines, including pure and applied mathematics, algorithm design, machine learning, data analytics, cybersecurity and mathematical modeling. Students regularly work on funded projects supported by regional and national organizations. These collaborations often extend beyond campus to include partnerships with major research institutions, government agencies and private industry.
Your research experience will prepare you for graduate school and a competitive job market while empowering you to apply your skills to real-world challenges with the potential to influence industries and communities across the globe. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty who serve as both scholars and mentors, you’ll receive personalized guidance, resources and encouragement every step of the way.
Research Faculty
These faculty members specialize in pure and applied mathematics, algorithm design, machine learning, data analytics, cybersecurity and mathematical modeling. They invite you to join their labs and explore their groundbreaking research.
Samantha Allen, Ph.D.
Knot Theory, Efficient Invariant Computation
Misook Heo, Ph.D.
Social Student Modeling, Spatial Ability, Multimedia Learning
Nicholas Hurl, Ph.D.
Numerical Analysis, Time Filters, Linear Multistep Methods, A-stability
Jeffrey Jackson, Ph.D.
Quantum Machine Learning, Discrete Fourier Transform
Patrick Juola, Ph.D.
Authorship Attribution via Stylometry
Rachael Miller Neilan, Ph.D.
Mathematical Biology, Population Modeling, Agent-based Modeling and Simulation
Robert Muth, Ph.D.
Representation Theory, Algebraic Combinatorics
Nathan Ong, Ph.D.
Machine Learning and Applications, Generative AI, Natural Language Processing, Data Science, Learning Sciences
Raffaele Romagnoli, Ph.D.
Optimal and Robust Control System Theory
Lauren Sugden, Ph.D.
Computational Biology, Machine Learning Interpretability, Population Genetics, Health Care
Karl Wimmer, Ph.D.
Machine Learning, Fourier Analysis, Sublinear Algorithms
Innovate, Discover & Lead the Future of Tech and Data
Explore hands-on research opportunities in pure and applied mathematics, computer science, and data science—guided by expert faculty and fueled by real-world impact.
Applied Mathematics
If you're passionate about using mathematics to solve real-world systems, you can explore research opportunities in mathematical biology, disease modeling and optimal control theory. Guided by our faculty and experts in fields such as biology, medicine and engineering, you’ll gain hands-on experience in mathematical modeling, parameter estimation, simulation techniques and data analysis. These experiences will equip you with the tools to tackle complex problems and make meaningful contributions to science, industry, healthcare and beyond.
Computer Science
As a computer science student, you’ll explore both the foundations of learning and its real-world applications. Whether you're challenging assumptions in probability theory, investigating machine learning without fixed models or using stylometry to determine authorship in legal and literary contexts, you'll push the boundaries of how we understand data, knowledge and identity. With support from faculty who encourage critical thinking and big questions, you'll gain the skills to tackle meaningful problems in AI, data science and emerging fields at the intersection of technology and society.
Data Science
If you are interested in using data to explore and understand the world around you, you will find exciting research opportunities within the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. With faculty mentorship, you will have the opportunity to build skills in data analysis, statistical modeling and machine learning while delving into a topic that drives you, whether that be in the world of biology, business, sports, public services or health care.
Mathematics
From the elegance of low-dimensional topology and knot theory to the structures of quantum groups and Boolean functions, immerse yourself in the landscape of mathematics. Engage in research across these theoretical domains and apply mathematical approaches to interdisciplinary challenges in areas like neuroscience, computational complexity, and optimal control theory. Through faculty mentorship, you'll develop mathematical intuition, present your discoveries at research symposia and build the analytical foundations for success in doctoral programs, research positions, or wherever your mathematical journey leads.
Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Each summer, you can take part in Duquesne’s 10-week Undergraduate Research Program (URP), where you'll conduct hands-on research on funded projects supported by government agencies, non-profit organizations and corporate foundations. These projects often extend beyond campus to include partnerships with experts from major research institutions and industry.
Real Voices. Real Experiences.
I am grateful for the Department of Math and Computer Science for providing me with countless opportunities to learn, to teach, to research and to thrive. I have presented my research at two national conferences and will publish those results, while preparing to begin a doctoral program as my next steps.
The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science has amazing mentors who helped me flourish in geospatial data science and land a job as a Director of GIS. The many research opportunities set students up for the next stage—whether it's employment or graduate school.