Interview with Mr. Tao Wen—Winner of the Mathematics 2024 Travel Award

We wish to congratulate Mr. Tao Wen on winning the Mathematics 2024 Travel Award.

Name: Mr. Tao Wen
Affiliation: The University of Manchester, UK
Research interests: network analysis; decision-making; game theory; data science

The following is an interview with Mr. Tao Wen:

1. Could you give a brief introduction to the readers, introduce your current research direction, and provide an update on your progress?

I am currently a Ph.D. student at the University of Manchester. My research focuses on decision-making and behavioral dynamics in complex networks, particularly in online social networks and transportation systems. I apply network science, computational modeling, and data analytics to understand how individuals and organizations make decisions under uncertainty. Recently, I have been working on a project analyzing maritime transport networks, studying how disruptions affect global trade using network-based models. This research is crucial for improving resilience and efficiency in international trade. Moreover, I actively participate in academic conferences, collaborate with researchers from different fields, and contribute to peer-reviewed journals. My goal is to bridge theoretical insights with practical applications, providing data-driven solutions to real-world challenges.

2. How does it feel to receive this recognition for your work? Where do you obtain information about participation in journal awards?

Receiving this award is a great honor, and it motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of my research. It is always rewarding to see that my work is valued by the academic community, and this award encourages me to contribute even more.

I heard about this opportunity through the journal website and email subscription. I discovered this opportunity last year and finally had the chance to obtain it this year. Engaging with editorial boards, and participating in academic discussions have also helped me stay informed about such opportunities.

3. Have you promoted the journal at any conferences? In addition, how do you prefer to share the journal with your community?

I did not have the chance to promote the journal at conferences, but I am willing to introduce the journal at conferences or workshops to fellow researchers who may find it relevant to their work. Beyond conferences, I will share the journal through multiple channels. I will discuss relevant papers with colleagues, include references in my presentations, and share links through academic social platforms like ResearchGate and LinkedIn. Moreover, I have contributed as the Guest Editor Assistant, helping to uphold the journal’s quality and visibility. Open discussions and collaborations are key to increasing a journal’s reach and impact, and I am happy to engage with high-quality publications in our field.

4. What is your opinion on the open access model of publishing?

I strongly support the open access model because it enhances knowledge sharing and makes research findings accessible to a broader audience. Open access removes financial barriers, allowing researchers, policymakers, and the public to benefit from new discoveries without subscription costs. This is particularly important for early career researchers, independent scholars, and institutions with limited resources.

However, sustainability remains a key challenge. It is important for funding agencies and universities to support open access publishing so that high-quality research remains freely available. Despite these challenges, open access plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration, accelerating scientific progress, and ensuring that research has a real-world impact beyond academia.

5. Which research topics do you think will be of particular interest to the research community in the coming years?

Several emerging topics will likely attract significant attention in the coming years. One key area is the study of AI-driven decision-making, particularly how generative artificial intelligence influences human behavior in social networks and economic systems. As AI continues to advance, understanding its interactions with human decision-making is crucial. Moreover, the intersection of computational social science and policy-making is gaining interest. Using AI and data-driven models to inform policies on misinformation, digital governance, and public health interventions will be essential. Overall, interdisciplinary research combining network science, AI, and real-world applications will continue to shape the future of academia and industry.

6. Do you have any advice for other aspiring young researchers looking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?

My main advice is to stay curious, persistent, and open to interdisciplinary collaboration. Research is a journey filled with challenges, but maintaining curiosity and a passion for discovery will keep you motivated. It is important to ask meaningful questions, explore diverse perspectives, and continuously seek feedback to refine your work. Networking is also important for young researchers. Engaging with other researchers, attending conferences, and actively participating in academic discussions can open up new opportunities and collaborations. Lastly, impact also comes from making research accessible and applicable. Try to bridge the gap between theory and practice, and consider how your work can contribute to solving real-world problems.

7. As the winner of this award, is there anything you want to express or anyone you would like to thank?

I am truly grateful for this recognition and would like to express my sincere appreciation to my advisors, colleagues, and collaborators who have supported me throughout my research journey. Their guidance, insightful discussions, and encouragement have played a significant role in shaping my work. I also want to thank the journal for providing a platform to share and promote high-quality research. These initiatives help young researchers like me gain confidence and contribute to our fields in a meaningful way. This award inspires me to continue exploring new ideas and contributing to impactful research in the future.