Ismar Volić

My area of research is algebraic topology, and more specifically calculus of functors. I have been applying this theory to the study of the rational homotopy type spaces of embeddings, and in particular to spaces of knots, links, and braids. I have also been trying to generalize finite type knot invariants to various embedding spaces, define multivariable manifold calculus and apply it to links and braids, and investigate Milnor invariants from the functor calculus viewpoint. I am also a coauthor of a monograph on homotopy theory of cubical diagrams that underlie calculus of functors as an important technical tool.

I enjoy teaching across the curriculum, and am fortunate to have taught a variety of classes at Wellesley, including topology, abstract algebra, Galois theory, number theory, combinatorics, and others. I also designed classes on algebraic geometry, cryptography, group actions, cryptography and privacy, and supervised independent studies and senior theses on Hochschild homology, differential geometry, math behind Google, differential equations, knot theory, and other topics. 

In recent years, the mathematics department has been redesigning and strengthening its curriculum and has as a result succeeded in recruiting more majors and sending more students to excellent graduate programs in mathematics. I am fortunate to be a member of the faculty at this time since my own professional goals coincide with this effort. I strive to blend the research and teaching parts of my job by introducing undergraduates to research mathematics. Teaching special topics courses, bringing mathematicians to give talks, supervising independent studies, summer research, and honors theses are just some of the ways in which I try to convey to our students that mathematics is a vibrant, exciting research field.