Have you ever wondered how we can harness the power of mathematics to solve social and environmental challenges? Katie Buchhorn is using statistics to make a real impact. She works as a Data Scientist for the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women at Monash University. Through her doctoral research, Katie developed innovative ways to optimise data collection in complex environmental systems, ensuring we can better monitor water quality in our river networks. She graduated from her PhD at Queensland University of Technology.

Katie's journey began with a degree in theoretical mathematics, followed by three years in the financial industry. She now contributes to the development of open-source machine learning software and shared her insights at the United Nations Asia-Pacific Internet Governance Forum. Katie combines her mathematical expertise with advanced technology to solve real-world problems and founded a personalised perfume start-up, Signature Scent AI.

Beyond her research, Katie is focused on engaging with the next generation of thinkers. She delivered a TEDx talk titled "How Mathematics Helps Humankind" and authored Wondrous Worlds: The Extraordinary Adventures of a Curious Mathematician, aiming to demystify careers in mathematics and demonstrate the field's profound impact. Katie's work is a testament to the incredible things that happen when you combine a passion for mathematics with a commitment to making the world a better place.