Mathematical Breakthroughs in Wave Propagation

This Fellowship proposal in theoretical mathematics aims to solve three major open problems in wave propagation. These are the long-time behaviour of nonlinear waves, including the behaviour and interaction of solitary waves; the propagation of waves in rough media; and the small-scale behaviour of interacting waves under the assumption of chaotic ray dynamics. The research aims to analyse wave equations that model problems in optical media and waveguides, medical and seismic imaging, and nano-electronic devices. Outcomes and benefits are expected in new mathematical theory, Australian research capability, better algorithms for numerically computing waves, and technological advances in communications, medical imaging, and seismic imaging.