Anna Parlak

I joined MPI MiS in July 2025 as a research scientist and transitioned to a research group leader position from October 2025. Before that, I was a Krener Assistant Professor at the University of California, Davis (2022 - 2025), a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Oxford (2021 - 2022), and a PhD student at the University of Warwick (2017 - 2021). I completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the University of Gdańsk.

I study low-dimensional manifolds using combinatorial and computational methods. My most recent work concerns veering triangulations of three-manifolds and their applications to the study of pseudo-Anosov flows. For example, I investigate how the topology of a three-manifold affects the variety of flows it can carry, and how properties of these flows can be read off from the algebraic invariants of the manifold. I often begin with computer experiments to spot patterns that help me frame the right hypotheses and then work toward a theoretical solution.

For me, the appeal of mathematics lies in the possibility of reaching genuine understanding and definite answers through purely theoretical investigations. After high school, I initially chose to study biotechnology, but I quickly became frustrated that real understanding seemed elusive and many questions could only be answered provisionally. I do sometimes wonder, though, if my experiences in mathematics and biology could come together in a way that would be useful for understanding biological systems.

I am very happy to be joining the Geometry, Groups, and Dynamics group at MPI MiS. Having many researchers from different branches of geometry, group theory, and dynamics in one place creates an excellent academic environment. It is easy to connect with people one might not encounter at conferences but whose work is close enough to lead to scientifically fruitful discussions. I look forward to building the new Low-Dimensional Topology group that will further expand the research scope of the institute.