{"id":2899,"date":"2025-08-11T23:13:31","date_gmt":"2025-08-11T23:13:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/?page_id=2899"},"modified":"2025-12-05T13:51:46","modified_gmt":"2025-12-05T11:51:46","slug":"focus-areas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/","title":{"rendered":"Focus Areas"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"2899\" class=\"elementor elementor-2899\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-733279d elementor-reverse-tablet elementor-reverse-mobile elementor-section-full_width elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"733279d\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-background-overlay\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-fc72028\" data-id=\"fc72028\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a73a7db elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a73a7db\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Focus Areas<\/h1>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fc8bad3 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"fc8bad3\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e384896 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e384896\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>The 13 core Focus Areas<\/h2><p>The CoE-MaSS has 13 core Focus Areas, in line with active researchers interests and national priorities. Each Focus Area has a Focus Area Coordinator (FAC) and an Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC). The FAC is in charge of facilitating the high-level strategic oversight of all activities that take place within the theme, and the AFAC assists the FAC with coordination of the Focus Area. The importance of each Focus Area having an additional AFAC is to develop such skills in emerging researchers around the country in all MaSS areas with a focus to build up a sustainable skillset in research project planning and implementation, and to create succession plans within each Focus Area.<\/p><h2>Liaising information<\/h2><p>The Coordinators are responsible for liaising with all researchers within their Focus Area from all CoE-MaSS affiliated institutions. Nodes need to solicit their ideas for the strategic research trajectory for the Focus Area and facilitate the progressive research goals of their multi-institutional Focus Area within the Nodes.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-403c5fe e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"403c5fe\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-5d86b45 --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#algebra_topology\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-5d86b45\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5d86b45 e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5d86b45\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-610dcae elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"610dcae\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"534\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/algebra_topology_1-1024x534.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2572\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/algebra_topology_1-1024x534.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/algebra_topology_1-300x156.jpg 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/algebra_topology_1-768x400.jpg 768w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/algebra_topology_1-1536x800.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/algebra_topology_1-2048x1067.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d45096c e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"d45096c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-774e1fd elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"774e1fd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Algebra &amp; Topology<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-49c2946 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"49c2946\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>This area focuses on aspects related to interdisciplinary research undertaken in Algebra and Topology. The research done involves several areas in mathematics: number theory, group theory, complex analysis, graph theory, hyperbolic geometry and topology with numeric methods, and computational analysis.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-cfb4e66 --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#graph_theory\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-cfb4e66\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cfb4e66 e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"cfb4e66\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-424edc4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"424edc4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"574\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/graph_theory_a_key_to_effective_project_management_3ff7b2adc1-1024x574.webp\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2573\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/graph_theory_a_key_to_effective_project_management_3ff7b2adc1-1024x574.webp 1024w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/graph_theory_a_key_to_effective_project_management_3ff7b2adc1-300x168.webp 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/graph_theory_a_key_to_effective_project_management_3ff7b2adc1-768x430.webp 768w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/graph_theory_a_key_to_effective_project_management_3ff7b2adc1.webp 1456w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3449b8f e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"3449b8f\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b7e0768 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"b7e0768\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Graph Theory<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5ff5fc5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5ff5fc5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Graph Theory is a modern area of mathematics whose explosive growth in the past 70 years can be attributed to its wide range of applications, foremost in computer science and information technology.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-6f966ce --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#mathematical_statistical_modelling_in_biosciences\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-6f966ce\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6f966ce e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"6f966ce\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-48bfd1c elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"48bfd1c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"970\" height=\"555\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/must_uploads_20240528110916.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2575\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/must_uploads_20240528110916.png 970w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/must_uploads_20240528110916-300x172.png 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/must_uploads_20240528110916-768x439.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 970px) 100vw, 970px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7706bc7 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"7706bc7\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5163e36 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5163e36\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Mathematical &amp; Statistical Modelling in Biosciences<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-00f6210 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"00f6210\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>This focus area is devoted to recent advances in life sciences that are based on applications of mathematics and statistics. It also includes mathematics and statistics which is applied or motivated by biological studies.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4b9a4e5 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4b9a4e5\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-a21ae94 --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#application-driven_statistical_advancements\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-a21ae94\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a21ae94 e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"a21ae94\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-734f72b elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"734f72b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/M-and-C-stats-pic.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2930\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/M-and-C-stats-pic.png 1024w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/M-and-C-stats-pic-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/M-and-C-stats-pic-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/M-and-C-stats-pic-768x768.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-75d6152 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"75d6152\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6b94475 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6b94475\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Application-Driven Statistical Advancements<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-aa44c21 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"aa44c21\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The advancement of academic statistics requires novel contributions to statistics in terms of new methodology. Such novelty often arises as a need for analytics of a real-world application presenting complexity not seen before. This area of statistical science aims to provide novel approaches to problems in the real world that are difficult for existing statistical frameworks to solve.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-ebd606c --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#mathematical_physics\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-ebd606c\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ebd606c e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"ebd606c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-48bb904 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"48bb904\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"520\" height=\"292\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Mathematical-Physics.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2931\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Mathematical-Physics.jpg 520w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Mathematical-Physics-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-077dc93 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"077dc93\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-aa695f8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"aa695f8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Mathematical Physics<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bfc93c4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bfc93c4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The Mathematical Physics focus area encompasses a wide range of topics such as theoretical high energy physics, gravitational physics, theoretical cosmology, computational physics and integrable systems. They are all connected using mathematical techniques to aid in studying physical questions.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-d19c246 --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#mathematical_sciences_education_research\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-d19c246\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d19c246 e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"d19c246\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-487e8a6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"487e8a6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"272\" height=\"180\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/272x180books-clock.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2929\" alt=\"\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b0a064f e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"b0a064f\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2f725e2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2f725e2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Mathematical Sciences Education Research<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-05ebf9c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"05ebf9c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Education is challenged to come up with new ideas about teaching and learning in the mathematical sciences where disciplines have to react to a fast-changing world. Educators are challenged to use new curricula, devise new teaching strategies, and come up with new assessment methods that are in tune with the working world that graduates will be entering post-study.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b039ef5 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"b039ef5\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-9f1902a --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#mathematic_statistics_in_business_industry\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-9f1902a\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9f1902a e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"9f1902a\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c52334a elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"c52334a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Modelling-pic-2-1024x683.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2938\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Modelling-pic-2-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Modelling-pic-2-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Modelling-pic-2-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Modelling-pic-2.png 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3cead91 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"3cead91\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a607f46 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a607f46\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Mathematics &amp; Statistics in Business &amp; Industry<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f3b71f0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f3b71f0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The Mathematics and Statistics in Business and Industry Focus Area aims to use mathematical techniques that encompass areas such as mathematical modelling, big data analysis, and machine learning to solve real-world problems.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-f1d7eba --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#methodological_computational_statistics\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-f1d7eba\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f1d7eba e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"f1d7eba\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7971cbe elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"7971cbe\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_319074614-1024x683.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2583\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_319074614-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_319074614-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_319074614-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_319074614-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_319074614-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c5cc23d e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"c5cc23d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5229b19 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5229b19\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Methodological &amp; Computational Statistics<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-827bce4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"827bce4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>An essential component and prerequisite for conducting good research is statistical theory and methodology. Postulating methodological frameworks for complex data remains of certain value by ensuring continuous development and enhancement of theory-based probabilistic models that may serve the phenomena of random behaviour mathematically.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-668cf60 --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#number_theory\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-668cf60\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-668cf60 e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"668cf60\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f83d150 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f83d150\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"744\" height=\"389\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/number_theory_resize_md.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2933\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/number_theory_resize_md.jpg 744w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/number_theory_resize_md-300x157.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 744px) 100vw, 744px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a0bf68e e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"a0bf68e\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2a3b09a elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2a3b09a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Number<br>Theory<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-138e154 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"138e154\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The Number Theory Focus Area covers a wide range of topics in number theory and its related fields such as algebraic geometry, combinatorics, discrete mathematics, and model theory. The role of the focus area is to connect South African researchers working in number theory and its related fields, as well as to facilitate international networking for the members of this focus area.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bb7c912 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"bb7c912\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-ef85a1a --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#numerical_applied_mathematics\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-ef85a1a\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ef85a1a e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"ef85a1a\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c5cfacf elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"c5cfacf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"380\" height=\"206\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Numerical-and-Applied-Mathematics.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2934\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Numerical-and-Applied-Mathematics.jpg 380w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Numerical-and-Applied-Mathematics-300x163.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 380px) 100vw, 380px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8786772 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"8786772\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-59f9131 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"59f9131\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Numerical &amp; Applied Mathematics<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6615b12 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6615b12\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>This focus area strives to bring together various groups scattered throughout South Africa. Some of the larger groups are the Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing group at Stellenbosch University, and the Fluid Dynamics and Modelling group at the University of the Witwatersrand, but there are also several other smaller groups and individual researchers.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-7eba962 --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#operator_algebras_functional_analysis\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-7eba962\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7eba962 e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"7eba962\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-833491c elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"833491c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Operator-Algebras-and-Functional-Analysis1.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2940\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Operator-Algebras-and-Functional-Analysis1.png 800w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Operator-Algebras-and-Functional-Analysis1-300x203.png 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Operator-Algebras-and-Functional-Analysis1-768x518.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e54f266 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"e54f266\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4102385 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"4102385\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Operator Algebras &amp; Functional Analysis<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-af22d0f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"af22d0f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The field of Operator Algebras and Functional Analysis is a very broad field drawing together a group of people with somewhat diverse interests who all share one common focus: the application of analysis in describing, understanding, and effectively applying mathematical structures.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-9f94153 --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#statistical_machine_learning\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-9f94153\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9f94153 e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"9f94153\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7300c35 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"7300c35\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/quantum-computing-min-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2935\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/quantum-computing-min-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/quantum-computing-min-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/quantum-computing-min-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/quantum-computing-min-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/quantum-computing-min.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2df5339 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"2df5339\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6c15fe4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6c15fe4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Statistical &amp; Machine Learning <\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4e667c0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4e667c0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Statistical and Machine Learning (S&amp;ML) combines traditional statistical methods with modern computational algorithms to analyse and model data. Statistical learning focuses on estimation and inference, using probabilistic models and assumptions to explain relationships between variables, while machine learning emphasises predictive accuracy through flexible, data-driven approaches<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f4fa9c6 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"f4fa9c6\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<a class=\"eael-wrapper-link-dcd3cee --eael-wrapper-link-tag\" href=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/focus-areas\/#symmetries_mechanics_applications\"><\/a><div data-eael-wrapper-link=\"eael-wrapper-link-dcd3cee\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dcd3cee e-con-full e-transform e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"dcd3cee\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:1.020000000000000017763568394002504646778106689453125,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_scale_effect_hover_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1855e05 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"1855e05\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"1003\" src=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Symmetry-Mechanics-and-Applications.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-2937\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Symmetry-Mechanics-and-Applications.jpg 700w, https:\/\/coemass.avidakizomba.co.za\/wpdev\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Symmetry-Mechanics-and-Applications-209x300.jpg 209w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b8ab912 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"b8ab912\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-07b6e58 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"07b6e58\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Symmetries, Mechanics &amp; Applications<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c589bf8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c589bf8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>In this focus area, the notion of symmetry as well as its natural extension, which is of critical importance to modern science, plays a role. The fundamental nature of symmetry ensures that it arises in several areas in mathematics, engineering and physics and therefore provides an arena for interdisciplinary research.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-93dfd0f e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"93dfd0f\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a6c10fc focus-area elementor-widget elementor-widget-eael-adv-tabs\" data-id=\"a6c10fc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"focus-area\" data-widget_type=\"eael-adv-tabs.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t        <div data-scroll-on-click=\"no\" data-scroll-speed=\"300\" id=\"eael-advance-tabs-a6c10fc\" class=\"eael-advance-tabs eael-tabs-vertical eael-tab-auto-active  active-caret-on\" data-tabid=\"a6c10fc\">\n            <div class=\"eael-tabs-nav \">\n                <ul class=\"\" role=\"tablist\">\n                                            <li id=\"algebra_topology\" class=\"active-default eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"true\" data-tab=\"1\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"algebra_topology-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Algebra &amp; Topology<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"application-driven_statistical_advancements\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"2\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"application-driven_statistical_advancements-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Application-Driven Statistical Advancements<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"graph_theory\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"3\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"graph_theory-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Graph Theory<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"mathematical_statistical_modelling_in_biosciences\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"4\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"mathematical_statistical_modelling_in_biosciences-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Mathematical &amp; Statistical Modelling in Biosciences<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"mathematical_physics\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"5\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"mathematical_physics-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Mathematical Physics<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"mathematical_sciences_education_research\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"6\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"mathematical_sciences_education_research-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Mathematical Sciences Education Research<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"mathematic_statistics_in_business_industry\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"7\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"mathematic_statistics_in_business_industry-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Mathematics &amp; Statistics in Business &amp; Industry<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"methodological_computational_statistics\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"8\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"methodological_computational_statistics-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Methodological &amp; Computational Statistics<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"number_theory\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"9\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"number_theory-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Number Theory<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"numerical_applied_mathematics\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"10\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"numerical_applied_mathematics-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Numerical &amp; Applied Mathematics<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"operator_algebras_functional_analysis\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"11\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"operator_algebras_functional_analysis-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Operator Algebras &amp; Functional Analysis<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"statistical_machine_learning\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"12\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"statistical_machine_learning-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Statistical &amp; Machine Learning <\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                                            <li id=\"symmetries_mechanics_applications\" class=\"inactive eael-tab-item-trigger eael-tab-nav-item\" aria-selected=\"false\" data-tab=\"13\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-controls=\"symmetries_mechanics_applications-tab\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n                            \n                            \n                            \n                                                            <h4 class=\"eael-tab-title title-after-icon\" >Symmetries, Mechanics &amp; Applications<\/h4>                                                    <\/li>\n                    \n                                  <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n            \n            <div class=\"eael-tabs-content\">\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"algebra_topology-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item active-default\" data-title-link=\"algebra_topology-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Algebra and Topology<\/h2><p>This area focuses on aspects related to interdisciplinary research undertaken in Algebra and Topology. The research done in this focus area involves several areas in mathematics: number theory, group theory, complex analysis, graph theory, hyperbolic geometry and topology with numeric methods, and computational analysis. Dialogue across the different research domains is essential and should be encouraged not only at the research level but throughout the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The links between technology and abstract ideas can find its realization in the research undertaken in this area.<\/p><p>Within the given areas there is often an interchange of ideas, visits and collaborations. The aim is to foster internal collaboration within each subdiscipline and provide an environment conducive to nurturing and attracting potential students\/researchers in each of the areas in a bid to establishing a critical mass favourable to the growth of the focus area. The problems proposed and dealt with by this Focus Area are all of international standards and have attracted the collaboration with partners from many universities in Europe, USA and Canada and parts of Africa. This research exposes South Africa as it competes as a partner in the international arena. On the other hand, much of the research planned or produced in this focus helps further the boundary of current knowledge.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2704267\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Bernardo Rodrigues (UP)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC) <a href=\"mailto:bernardo.rodrigues@up.ac.za\">bernardo.rodrigues@up.ac.za<\/a><\/em><\/div><div>Cerene Rathilal (UKZN) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC) <a href=\"mailto:RathilalC@ukzn.ac.za\">RathilalC@ukzn.ac.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/div><div>Dharms Baboolal (UKZN)<\/div><div>Francesco Russo (UCT)<\/div><div>Frieda Theron (NWU)<\/div><div>James Raftery (UP)<\/div><div>John van der Berg (UP)<\/div><div>Kwashira Rugare (Wits)<\/div><div>Meira Hockman (Wits)<\/div><div>Olivier Otafudu (Wits)<\/div><div>Paran Pillay (UKZN)<\/div><div>Patrice Ntumba (UP)<\/div><div>Thekiso Seretlo (UL)<\/div><div>Themba Dube (UNISA)<\/div><div>Tung Le (UP)<\/div><div>Walt van Amstel (UP)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"application-driven_statistical_advancements-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"application-driven_statistical_advancements-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Application-Driven Statistical Advancements<\/h2><p>The advancement of academic statistics requires novel contributions to statistics in terms of new methodology. Such novelty often arises as a need for analytics of a real-world application presenting complexity not seen before. This area of statistical science aims to provide novel approaches to problems in the real world that are difficult for existing statistical frameworks to solve.<\/p><p>This interdisciplinary approach combines theoretical rigor with practical applicability, aiming to create impactful solutions across various domains. Developing software packages and tutorials that connect theoretical concepts with practical applications could be valuable. The application areas are diverse and could include spatial data, epidemiology, financial data, temporal data, health data and environmental data for example.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2704268\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Andriette Bekker (UP)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:andriette.bekker@up.ac.za\">andriette.bekker@up.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Johan Ferreira (UP) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:Johan.Ferreira@up.ac.za\">Johan.Ferreira@up.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Andriette Verster (UFS)<\/div><div>Alexander Muoka (UKZN)<\/div><div>Ali Ghodsi\u00a0 (UWaterloo)<\/div><div>Aviwe Gqwaka (NMU)<\/div><div>Charles Chimedza (Wits)<\/div><div>Chritophe Ley (UGent)<\/div><div>Danielle Roberts (UKZN)<\/div><div>Frans Kanfer (UP)<\/div><div>Gary Sharp (NMU)<\/div><div>Henry Mwambi (UKZN)<\/div><div>Innocent Maposa (SU)<\/div><div>Innocent Mboya (UKZN)<\/div><div>Jan Beirlant (KU Leuven)<\/div><div>Jennifer Priestley (Kennesaw State University, USA)<\/div><div>Jesca Batidzirai (UKZN)<\/div><div>Johan Hugo (NMU)<\/div><div>Liz van der Merwe (UWC)<\/div><div>Maia Lesosky (UCT)<\/div><div>Marcello Pagano (Harvard)<\/div><div>Mina Norouzirad (NOVA University Lisbon)<\/div><div>Mohana Mohammed (UCT)<\/div><div>Najmeh Nakhaeirad (UP)<\/div><div>Nqayiya Awonke (NMU)<\/div><div>Priyanka Nagar (SU)<\/div><div>Seite Makgai (UP)<\/div><div>Sisa Pazi (NMU)<\/div><div>Tertius de Wet (SU)<\/div><div>Tony Ng (SMU)<\/div><div>Vijay Nair (UMich)<\/div><div>Warren Brettenny (NMU)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"graph_theory-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"graph_theory-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Graph Theory<\/h2><p>Graph Theory is a modern area of mathematics whose explosive growth in the past 70 years can be attributed to its wide range of applications, foremost in computer science and information technology. This focus area is at the heart of an innovation, which has promoted the information society arguably more than any other innovation: the search engine Google, whose success is a result of a novel use of graph theoretic methods. Graph Theory is also important for the development of algorithms for the routing of cellphone calls, which are vital for the functioning of communication in the South African society.<\/p><p>As a research area, Graph Theory has been very active. Several South African universities have research groups or individuals engaged in research in graph theory and closely related areas, including Stellenbosch University, University of Johannesburg, University of the Witwatersrand, University of Cape Town, University of the Western Cape, University of the Free State, Rhodes University, University of KwaZulu-Natal, and the University of Pretoria.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709103\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Simon Mukwembi (Wits)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC) <\/em><a href=\"mailto:betsie.jonck@wits.ac.za\">simon.mukwembi@wits.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Eric Adriantiana (Rhodes) <em>Assistant<\/em><em> Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:e.andriantiana@ru.ac.za\">e.andriantiana@ru.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Adriana Roux (SU)<\/div><div>Alex Somto Arinze Alochukwu (UJ)<\/div><div>Brandon Du Preez (UCT)<\/div><div>Christo Kriel (Wits)<\/div><div>David Erwin (UCT)<\/div><div>Eric Mwambene (UWC)<\/div><div>Eunice Mphako-Banda (Wits)<\/div><div>Imran Allie (UCT)<\/div><div>Margaret Archibald (Wits)<\/div><div>Michael Henning (UJ)<\/div><div>Peter Dankelmann (UJ)<\/div><div>Ronnie Maartens (Wits)<\/div><div>Sonwabile Mafunda (SOKA University, California)<\/div><div>Stefan Wagner (SU)<\/div><div>Thokozani Ncambalala (Wits)<\/div><div>Tomas Vetrik (UFS)<\/div><div>Valisoa Rakotonarivo (UP)<\/div><div>Zekhaya Shozi (SPU)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"mathematical_statistical_modelling_in_biosciences-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"mathematical_statistical_modelling_in_biosciences-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Mathematical and Statistical Modelling in Biosciences<\/h2><p>This focus area is devoted to recent advances in life sciences that are based on applications of mathematics and statistics. It also includes mathematics and statistics which is applied or motivated by biological studies. The focus area seeks to promote multidisciplinary research, bringing together mathematicians, applied mathematicians, statisticians, biologists, ecologists and other practitioners in life and medical sciences. With so many sub-themes, multidisciplinary research is at the forefront of the activities.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">South Africa, like many other developing countries, is deeply affected by diseases such as HIV\/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and cancer, among others. Human health, the health of domestic and wild animals, plant life, and the broader environment are interconnected. Consequently, a knowledge-driven approach is essential to address the challenges at the human-animal-ecosystem-environment interface. The focus area calls for integration of various fields and disciplines, amongst others mathematics, statistics, ecology, biology, to collaboratively enhance well-being and address threats to health and ecosystems through sophisticated modelling, together with the computational aspects. Advancements in modelling methodologies may assist decision-makers in executing essential management judgments about these matters.\u00a0<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709097\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Michael Chapwanya (UP)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:michael.chapwanya@up.ac.za\">michael.chapwanya@up.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Phindile Dumani (UP) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC) <\/em><a href=\"mailto:phindile.dumani@up.ac.za\">phindile.dumani@up.ac.za<\/a>\u00a0<br \/>Alex Welte (SU)<\/div><div>Barend Erasmus (UP)<\/div><div>Cang Hui (SU)<\/div><div>Chinenye Assumpta Nnakenyi (SU)<\/div><div>Farai Chirove (UJ)<\/div><div>Farai Nyabadza (UJ)<\/div><div>Jacek Banasiak (UP)<\/div><div>Jean Lubuma (Wits)<\/div><div>Justin Munganga (UNISA)<\/div><div>Kesh Govinder (UKZN)<br \/>Maria Vivien Visaya (UJ)<\/div><div>Michael Chapwanya (UP)<\/div><div>Michel Verstraete (Wits)<\/div><div>Patrick Tchempo Djomegni (NWU)<\/div><div>Roumen Anguelov (UP)<\/div><div>Salisu Garba (UP)<\/div><div>Segun Isaac Oke (UP)\u00a0<\/div><div>Tony Booth (RU)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"mathematical_physics-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"mathematical_physics-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Mathematical Physics<\/h2><p>Questions arising from Physics have always provided strong motivation for research in Mathematics, often leading to new techniques or even the emergence of new mathematical fields. Conversely, the detailed study of physical systems (including the Universe as a whole) very often requires advanced mathematical tools. Being at the interface of these two worlds, mathematical physics is fertile ground for identifying new directions in the mathematical sciences as well as for applying these techniques to new and useful settings.<\/p><p>The mathematical physics focus area encompasses a wide range of topics such as theoretical high energy physics, gravitational physics, theoretical cosmology, computational physics and integrable systems. They are all connected using mathematical techniques to aid in studying physical questions. Many of these techniques are motivated by recent developments in string theory, which have led to completely new ways of approaching the study of physical systems.<\/p><p>An important aspect of the focus area is that it provides perhaps one of the best avenues to popularise the importance of the mathematical sciences to the general public. As mentioned, it is often the deep questions about nature that provide the starting point for people of all ages to become interested in science. So, even though the message that mathematics underlies all aspects of daily life and technology should always be emphasised, the role of mathematics as the language of nature is an important element in engaging the public and perhaps breaking down some of the barriers when it comes to understanding and using mathematical concepts.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709098\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Konstantinos Zoubos (UP)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:kzoubos@up.ac.za\">kzoubos@up.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Amare Abbebe (NWU) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC)<\/em> <a href=\"mailto:Amareabebe.Gidelew@nwu.ac.za\">Amareabebe.Gidelew@nwu.ac.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/div><div>Abdullahi Adem (NWU)<\/div><div>Anosh Joseph (Wits)<\/div><div>Denis Pollney (RU)<\/div><div>Kevin Goldstein (Wits)<\/div><div>Masood Khalique (NWU)<\/div><div>Mathys Machiel Snyman (UP)<\/div><div>Pallab Basu (Wits)<\/div><div>Rituparno Goswami (UKZN)<\/div><div>Robert de Mello Koch (Wits)<\/div><div>Vishnu Jejjala (Wits)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"mathematical_sciences_education_research-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"mathematical_sciences_education_research-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Mathematical Sciences Education Research<\/h2><p>Education is challenged to come up with new ideas about teaching and learning in the mathematical sciences, such as mathematics and statistics, where disciplines have to react to a fast-changing world.\u00a0 Educators are challenged to use new curricula, devise new teaching strategies, and come up with new assessment methods that are in tune with the working world that graduates will be entering post-study. Accordingly, there is enormous pressure on and within university systems to improve many aspects of teaching and learning in the sciences and in mathematics and statistics in particular, with no shortage of ideas as to how professional practice could be positively developed.<\/p><p>In statistics and mathematics, however, there are additional factors that call for research and international collaboration to ensure best practices are followed in the education of these disciplines. Studies in Science, Commerce and Engineering, require at least one module to be offered by Mathematics or Statistics departments. This puts constraints on these disciplines, having to deal with large classes of mixed ability students.<\/p><p>The digital age has resulted in changes in the ways in which data is captured and analysed, so that statistics education needs to constantly be reviewed and updated to be in touch with the changing world that the graduates will be entering. There is further an exponential growth in the need for data analytics capabilities of non-statisticians, calling for statistics departments to run training workshops in statistical analysis, reporting and decision making from data for the University, Government, Banks and Industry. Statistics departments must react to a continuously changing work environment, produce \u201cjob ready\u201d graduates and find ways to push the boundaries of the discipline and come up with innovative ideas in teaching.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709099\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Delia North (UKZN)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:northd@ukzn.ac.za\">northd@ukzn.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Nombuso Zondo (NWU)<em> Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC) <\/em><a href=\"mailto:Nombuso.Zondo@nwu.ac.za\">Nombuso.Zondo@nwu.ac.za<\/a>\u00a0<br \/>Gilbert Makanda (CUT)<br \/>H Magau (CUT)<br \/>Leopold Shinya (CUT)<br \/>Liam Baker (SU)<br \/>Lukes Kalobo (CUT)<br \/>Minnie Moller (CUT)<br \/>Phoobhal Pillay (UKZN)<br \/>Renette Blignaut (UWC)<br \/>Riaan de Jongh (NWU)<br \/>Sabastine Mushori (CUT)<br \/>Sarah Bansilal (UKZN)<br \/>Wendy Setlalentoa (CUT)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"mathematic_statistics_in_business_industry-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"mathematic_statistics_in_business_industry-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <h2>Mathematics and Statistics in Business and Industry<\/h2><p>The Mathematics and Statistics in Business and Industry Focus Area aims to use mathematical techniques that encompass areas such as mathematical modelling, big data analysis, and machine learning to solve real-world problems. They focus on interdisciplinary approaches, solving problems in industries like mining, conservation, and finance, to name a few. To date, they have helped the mining, sugar, conservation, and local farming industries through the use of interdisciplinary research.<\/p><p>But they don\u2019t just focus on industry problems: they are passionate about developing the skills of emerging young researchers in South Africa, and, more broadly, Africa. They also produce publications that are of interest to the scientific community, and encourage participation of academics and graduate students specialising in different fields of the Mathematical Sciences.<\/p><h2 class=\"p3\"><strong>Researchers<\/strong><\/h2><div>David Mason (Wits)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:david.mason@wits.ac.za\">david.mason@wits.ac.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/div><div>Erick Mubai (Wits) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC) <\/em><a href=\"mailto:erick.mubai@wits.ac.za\">erick.mubai@wits.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Ashleigh Hutchinson (Wits)<\/div><div>Avnish Magan (Wits)<\/div><div>Gideon Fareo (Wits)<\/div><div>Jeff Sanders (AIMS)<\/div><div>Keegan Anderson (UJ)<\/div><div>Masood Khalique (NWU)<\/div><div>Montaz Ali (Wits)<\/div><div>Nick Hale (SU)<\/div><div>Precious Sibanda (UKZN)<\/div><div>Rahab Kgatle (Wits)<\/div><div>Rodwell Kufakunesu (UP)<\/div><div>Syamala Krishnannair (UniZulu)<\/div><div>Thama Duba (Wits)<\/div>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"methodological_computational_statistics-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"methodological_computational_statistics-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Methodological and Computational Statistics<\/h2><p>An essential component and prerequisite for conducting good research is statistical theory and methodology. In a more theoretical sense, postulating methodological frameworks for complex data remains of certain value by ensuring continuous development and enhancement of theory-based probabilistic models that may serve the said phenomena of random behaviour mathematically. In this focus area consideration and acknowledgment should be given to significant recent advancements in the statistical discipline.<\/p><p>Most significantly, processing power has increased rapidly; big data and more extensive multidimensional data systems can now be analysed. The science of statistics focuses on modelling and learning from data in both theoretical and applied settings. A more applied context calls these theoretical developments to action, with approaches many times requiring computationally challenging environments in which the modelling effort may be enriched with subsequent estimation and hypothesis testing. This focus area intends to unify fundamental methodological research in statistics together with computational aspects of the modern era.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.3600196\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Andriette Bekker (UP)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:andriette.bekker@up.ac.za\">andriette.bekker@up.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Johan Ferreira (UP) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:Johan.Ferreira@up.ac.za\">Johan.Ferreira@up.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Andriette Verster (UFS)<\/div><div>Alexander Muoka (UKZN)<\/div><div>Ali Ghodsi\u00a0 (UWaterloo)<\/div><div>Aviwe Gqwaka (NMU)<\/div><div>Charles Chimedza (Wits)<\/div><div>Chritophe Ley (UGent)<\/div><div>Danielle Roberts (UKZN)<\/div><div>Frans Kanfer (UP)<\/div><div>Gary Sharp (NMU)<\/div><div>Henry Mwambi (UKZN)<\/div><div>Innocent Maposa (SU)<\/div><div>Innocent Mboya (UKZN)<\/div><div>Jan Beirlant (KU Leuven)<\/div><div>Jennifer Priestley (Kennesaw State University, USA)<\/div><div>Jesca Batidzirai (UKZN)<\/div><div>Johan Hugo (NMU)<\/div><div>Liz van der Merwe (UWC)<\/div><div>Maia Lesosky (UCT)<\/div><div>Marcello Pagano (Harvard)<\/div><div>Mina Norouzirad (NOVA University Lisbon)<\/div><div>Mohana Mohammed (UCT)<\/div><div>Najmeh Nakhaeirad (UP)<\/div><div>Nqayiya Awonke (NMU)<\/div><div>Priyanka Nagar (SU)<\/div><div>Seite Makgai (UP)<\/div><div>Sisa Pazi (NMU)<\/div><div>Tertius de Wet (SU)<\/div><div>Tony Ng (SMU)<\/div><div>Vijay Nair (UMich)<\/div><div>Warren Brettenny (NMU)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"number_theory-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"number_theory-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Number Theory<\/h2><p>The Number Theory Focus Area covers a wide range of topics in number theory and its related fields such as algebraic geometry, combinatorics, discrete mathematics, and model theory. Although, number theory primarily deals with the properties and relations of the whole numbers, it has become an exciting interdisciplinary field in mathematics with numerous applications in other areas of science such as in computer science and physics.<\/p><p>The role of the focus area is to connect South African researchers working in number theory and its related fields, as well as to facilitate international networking for the members of this focus area.<\/p><p>Number theory is one of the oldest and deepest branch of mathematics. Problems in number theory are often very simple to state, and this attracts mathematician of all ages to work in this field. As a result of this, many of the world\u2019s brightest minds have considered problems in number theory. As we all aware, mathematics is crucial for the development of science and technology, and having number theory as a major research topic in South Africa will inspire young students in the country to consider a career in mathematics. Moreover, several methods developed in number theory have stimulated advances in other fields, such as computer science.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709096\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div class=\"p1\">Florian Luca (Wits)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:florian.luca@wits.ac.za\">florian.luca@wits.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div class=\"p1\">Dimbinaina Ralaivaosaona (SU) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:naina@sun.ac.za\">naina@sun.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Adriana Roux (SU)<\/div><div>Arnold Knofmacher (Wits)<\/div><div>Augustine Munagi (Wits)<\/div><div>Darlison Nyirenda (Wits)<\/div><div>Dimbinaina Ralaivaosaona (SU)<\/div><div>Dirk Basson (SU)<\/div><div>Eric Andriantiana (RU)<\/div><div>Florian Luca (Wits)<\/div><div>Gareth Boxall (SU)<\/div><div>Karin Howell (SU)<\/div><div>Liam Baker (SU)<\/div><div>Sonwabile Mafunda (UJ)<\/div><div>Sophie Marques (SU)<\/div><div>Walt van Amstel (UP)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"numerical_applied_mathematics-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"numerical_applied_mathematics-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Numerical and Applied Mathematics<\/h2><p>This focus area strives to bring together various groups scattered throughout South Africa. Some of the larger groups are the Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing group at Stellenbosch University, and the Fluid Dynamics and Modelling group at the University of the Witwatersrand, but there are also several other smaller groups and individual researchers. The common thread among these groups is computation and application. Another aim of the focus area is to introduce young learners to ideas of applied and numerical mathematics and encourage a future generation of researchers in these areas.<\/p><p>The major mechanism for improving countrywide collaboration is through an annual meeting. This is the annual South African Numerical and Applied Mathematics (SANUM) symposium. This symposium has acquired an international status since its inception in 1975, and attracts many plenary and contributed talks from well-known international researchers. At this meeting, applied mathematicians discuss their work and often pose computational challenges to the numerical mathematicians. In turn, numerical mathematicians advertise their skills on the latest computational challenges. In this way, collaborations to the mutual benefit of both sets of researchers can be established.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709102\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div class=\"p1\">Andre Weideman (SU)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:weideman@sun.ac.za\">weideman@sun.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div class=\"p1\">Nick Hale (SU) <em>Assistant<\/em><em> Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:nickhale@sun.ac.za\">nickhale@sun.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Andie de Villiers (SU)<\/div><div>Bubacarr Bah (AIMS)<\/div><div>Byron Jacobs (Wits)<\/div><div>David Mason (Wits)<\/div><div>Daya Reddy (UCT)<\/div><div>Eben Mare (UP)<\/div><div>Eder Kikianty (UP)<\/div><div>Gerald Marewo (NWU)<\/div><div>Inger Fabris-Rotelli (UP)<\/div><div>Kalilash Patidar (UWC)<\/div><div>Mapundi Banda (UP)<br \/>Maria Vivien Visaya (UJ)<\/div><div>Marc Sedjro (AIMS)<\/div><div>Montaz Ali (Wits)<\/div><div>Nic van Rensburg (UP)<\/div><div>Precious Sibanda (UKZN)<\/div><div>Riana Roux (SU)<\/div><div>Sicelo Goqo (UKZN)<\/div><div>Rhameez Herbst (UJ)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"operator_algebras_functional_analysis-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"operator_algebras_functional_analysis-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Operator Algebras and Functional Analysis<\/h2><p>The field of Operator Algebras and Functional Analysis is a very broad field drawing together a group of people with somewhat diverse interests who all share one common focus: the application of analysis in describing, understanding, and effectively applying mathematical structures. The most fruitful subfields of this area with the richest structure and most challenging problems are those which draw together a variety of structures into one integrated whole.<\/p><p>Functional analysis and operator theory holds an important position in modern mathematics, and many subjects have their foundations built on it; to mention just a few: quantum mechanics, partial differential equations, and numerical analysis, which is essential in all engineering applications.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709095\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Sanne Ter Horst (NWU)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC) <\/em><a href=\"mailto:Sanne.TerHorst@nwu.ac.za\">Sanne.TerHorst@nwu.ac.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/div><div>Miek Messerschmidt (UP)\u00a0<em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:miek.messerschmidt@up.ac.za\">miek.messerschmidt@up.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Andrew Pinchuck (RU)<\/div><div>Bertin Zinsou (Wits)<\/div><div>Bruce Watson (Wits)<\/div><div>Chinedu Izuchuwku (UKZN)<\/div><div>Eder Kikianty (UP)<\/div><div>Elroy Zeekoei (NWU)<\/div><div>Gilbert Groenewald (NWU)<\/div><div>Heinrich Raubenheimer (UJ)<\/div><div>Jacek Banasiak (UP)<\/div><div>Jan Fourie (NWU)<\/div><div>Jan-Harm van der Walt (UP)<\/div><div>Jurie Conradie (UCT)<\/div><div>Kerstin Jordaan (UNISA)<\/div><div>Koos Grobler (NWU)<\/div><div>Lenore Lindeboom (UNISA)<\/div><div>Manfred Moller (Wits)<\/div><div>Marten Wortel (UP)<\/div><div>Martin Weigt (NMU)<\/div><div>Pierre de Jager (NWU)<\/div><div>Rudi Brits (UJ)<\/div><div>Retha Heymann (SU)<\/div><div>Rocco Duvenhage (UP)<\/div><div>Ronald Benjamin (SU)<\/div><div>Schalk Mouton (SU)<\/div><div>Tosin Mewomo (UKZN)<\/div><div>Walt van Amstel (UP)<\/div><div>Whasuck Lee (NWU)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"statistical_machine_learning-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"statistical_machine_learning-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Statistical and Machine Learning<\/h2><p>Statistical and Machine Learning (S&amp;ML) combines traditional statistical methods with modern computational algorithms to analyse and model data. Statistical learning focuses on estimation and inference, using probabilistic models and assumptions to explain relationships between variables, while machine learning emphasises predictive accuracy through flexible, data-driven approaches. Classical methods such as regression, time series analysis, and hypothesis testing form the foundation of statistical learning. In contrast, machine learning techniques, including decision trees, neural networks, and ensemble methods, leverage computational power to handle complex, high-dimensional data.<\/p><p>The synergy between statistics and machine learning is evident in various contexts, such as regularisation (Ridge, LASSO, MEnet), Bayesian inference, and ensemble learning, which merge interpretability with predictive strength. While statistical methods remain crucial for hypothesis-driven analysis and explainability, machine learning excels in high-dimensional, unstructured environments where traditional models struggle. Integrating statistical rigor with machine learning\u2019s adaptability enhances decision-making as data science advances, making S&amp;ML essential in fields like finance, healthcare, and social sciences.<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709100\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div class=\"p2\">Ritesh Ajoodha (Wits)<em> Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)<\/em><\/div><div>Anban Pillay (UKZN)<\/div><div>Andrew Paskaramoorthy (Wits)<\/div><div>Andries Engelbrecht (SU)<\/div><div>Andriette Bekker (UP)<\/div><div>Benjamin Rosman (Wits)<\/div><div>Bruce Bassett (UCT)<\/div><div>Bruce Mellado (Wits)<\/div><div>Charles Chimedza (Wits)<\/div><div>Clint van Alten (Wits)<\/div><div>Corn\u00e9 van Daalen (SU)<\/div><div>Dustin van der Haar (UJ)<\/div><div>Ebrahim Momoniat (UJ)<\/div><div>Eustasius Musenge (Wits)<\/div><div>Frans Kanfer (UP)<\/div><div>Hairong Bau (Wits)<\/div><div>Herman Engelbrecht (SU)<\/div><div>Herman Kamper (SU)<\/div><div>Hima Vadapalli (Wits)<\/div><div>Ken Nixon (Wits)<\/div><div>Maria Schuld (UKZN)<br \/>Maria Vivien Visaya (UJ)<\/div><div>Pieter de Villiers (UP)<\/div><div>Pravesh Ranchod (Wits)<\/div><div>Richard Klein (Wits)<\/div><div>Ritesh Ajoodha (Wits)<\/div><div>Scott Hazelhurst (Wits)<\/div><div>Simukai Utete (AIMS)<\/div><div>Steve Kroon (SU)<\/div><div>Steven James (Wits)<\/div><div>Terence van Zyl (UJ)<\/div><div>Tim Gebbie (UCT)<\/div><div>Vukosi Marivate (UP)<\/div><div>Willie Brink (SU)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t        \n                    <div id=\"symmetries_mechanics_applications-tab\" class=\"clearfix eael-tab-content-item inactive\" data-title-link=\"symmetries_mechanics_applications-tab\">\n\t\t\t\t        <section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><h2>Symmetries, Mechanics, and Applications<\/h2><p>In this focus area, the notion of symmetry as well as its natural extension, which is of critical importance to modern science, plays a role.\u00a0 The fundamental nature of symmetry ensures that it arises in several areas in mathematics, engineering and physics and therefore provides an arena for interdisciplinary research.\u00a0<\/p><p>This focus area is intended to be broad,and covers areas of research where theory and analytic methods associated with symmetry play a role, including mechanics, fluids, gravitational theories, mathematical and theoretical physics, dynamical systems, differential geometry and all types of differential and difference equations.<\/p><p>The aim of the focus area and associated sub-areas of investigation could provide avenues to broaden the interdisciplinary research across other focus areas.\u00a0 Noting that this focus area is itself very broad, we strive on creating intersecting collaborative work.\u00a0 These could be both applied as well as theoretical in nature.\u00a0<\/p><\/article><\/section><section class=\"content-row\"><article class=\"textual-article content-block\"><span id=\"d.en.2709101\"><\/span><h2>Researchers<\/h2><div>Sunil Maharaj (UKZN)\u00a0<em>Focus Area Coordinator (FAC)\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:maharaj@ukzn.ac.za\">maharaj@ukzn.ac.za<\/a><\/div><div>Sifiso Ngubelanga (DUT) <em>Assistant Focus Area Coordinator (AFAC) \u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:sifison@dut.ac.za\">sifison@dut.ac.za<\/a> <em>\u00a0<\/em><\/div><div>Abdul Kara (Wits)<\/div><div>Anslyn John (SU)<\/div><div>David Mason (Wits)<\/div><div>Denis Pollney (Rhodes)<\/div><div>Fazal Mahomed (Wits)<\/div><div>Joel Moitsheki (Wits)<\/div><div>Kesh Govinder (UKZN)<\/div><div>Masood Khalique (NWU)<\/div><div>Megan Govender (DUT)<\/div><div>Rituparno Goswami (UKZN)<\/div><div>Sameerah Jamal (Wits)<\/div><div>Sibusiso Moyo (SU)<br \/>Sudan Hansraj (UKZN)<\/div><\/article><\/section>                                        <\/div>\n\t\t                    <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Focus Areas The 13 core Focus Areas The CoE-MaSS has 13 core Focus Areas, in line with active researchers interests 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