Tim Rogalsky

Biography

Tim's training is in differential equations, numerical algorithms, and optimization. An applied mathematician, Tim faces ethical choices in his research pursuits. For example, his skills could easily be put to use in the military, but his Anabaptist convictions have led him instead to research projects that he believes are more consonant with shalom. As a graduate student, he contributed to the goal of energy conservation by developing a software package that designs more efficient fan blades. His current applied focus is in epidemiological research—modelling epidemics like HIV/AIDS or West Nile Virus, both to understand the spread of the disease and to advise health officials on optimal public health strategies. Tim's love for theology was sparked in the early 1990s at MBBC, and has been nurtured during his time at CMU. The result is a rather unique interest in the connections between mathematics and the Christian faith. A summary of this vocational project can be found in his article, "Distinctively Christian Mathematical Instruction: A Hopeful Imagination," in the Spring 2008 issue of Direction: A Mennonite Brethren Forum. Tim is currently working at expanding this material into book form.

Research Interest

Calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, chaos theory, discrete mathematics, logic.