Professor Sarah Whitehouse

Professor Sarah Whitehouse

Professor of Pure Mathematics, University of Sheffield

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PhD: University of Warwick, 1994

Previous appointments: 1994-1996 Lecturer (fixed term), University of Warwick; 1996-1998 Marie-Curie Postdoctoral Researcher, Université Paris 13; 1998-2002 Maître de Conférences (Lecturer), Université d'Artois; 2002-2014 Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Reader, University of Sheffield

Research interests: Algebraic Topology, Homotopical Algebra

аĿª½±service: Research Meetings Committee 2015-2017, Early Career Research Committee 2017-2021

Additional information: Co-organiser since 2010 of the Transpennine Topology Triangle, one of the longest-running аĿª½±scheme 3 networks; longstanding commitment to Women in Topology, as a team leader, co-organiser and member of the steering group; commitment to supporting early career stages, including involvement in аĿª½±Prospects in Mathematics, Young Researchers in Mathematics and аĿª½±Undergraduate Summer Schools.

Personal statement: Over the last few exceptionally challenging years, it has been heartening to see the excellent work of the аĿª½±in many areas, including its pandemic response, its support for early career stages and for under-represented groups and its work in supporting mathematicians seeking refuge in the UK. I view service work for the аĿª½±as a key way in which I can make an effective and positive contribution to the mathematical community.

The аĿª½±has a crucial role in representing mathematics, explaining its importance in addressing huge challenges such as climate change, and making the case for a broad base of mathematical research, including foundational aspects whose potential applications may not emerge for decades.

I would bring experience of research coordination, commitment to supporting early career stages and women in mathematics, as well as a willingness to engage with the problems facing the mathematical community and the HE sector in the UK. Experience as deputy head of my department over the last four years had led to insight into some of the challenges faced by colleagues at all career stages and with a wide variety of personal circumstances.