MATRIX Challenge Workshop
AI vs Simon Marais Mathematics Competition Open Problems
8-12 March 2027
Creswick, Victoria
Can AI help solve an open mathematical problem?
Apply now to be part of Australia’s team of outstanding PhD-level students to crack some of the most challenging open questions from the Simon Marais Mathematics Competition (SMMC) using the latest AI models and techniques.
Will human talent, mathematical insight and creativity teamed up with AI be able to tackle problems for which no answers are currently known?
The workshop is supported by sponsors Betashares and the Simon Marais Mathematics Competition. Participants will be provided with free full board and lodging at MATRIX and given the opportunity to meet with Betashares representatives and explore internship opportunities.
Download and complete the application form.
Submit the application form and supporting documents.
Closing date: Friday, 13 November 2026
Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD in the mathematical sciences or a related discipline at an Australian university, or, if not enrolled, demonstrate an equivalent level of research competency.
Applications from students enrolled at mathematics and statistics departments and related disciplines are encouraged. Preference may be given to applicants from MATRIX partner and member institutions.
Selection is based on academic suitability for the workshop, including an assessment of programming and mathematics skills relative to the cohort.
Download and complete the application form.
Submit the application form and supporting documents.
Closing date: Friday, 13 November 2026
Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD in the mathematical sciences or a related discipline at an Australian university, or, if not enrolled, demonstrate an equivalent level of research competency.
Applications from students enrolled at mathematics and statistics departments and related disciplines are encouraged. Preference may be given to applicants from MATRIX partner and member institutions.
Selection is based on academic suitability for the workshop.
Contact us if you have any questions.
Work with leading mathematicians
Over five intensive days at MATRIX, a selection of twenty outstanding students will be invited to work with leading academic mentors, augmented by postdoctoral research associates.
Are you ready to take on the challenge?
Are you curious about how AI might advance mathematical research and do you combine strong mathematical insight with practical skills such as coding or effective prompting? Yes…then this is for you!
Applications are open to students enrolled in a PhD in the mathematical sciences or a related discipline at an Australian university, as well as applicants who can demonstrate an equivalent level of research competency.
Supervisors! Please share this opportunity with talented PhD students who enjoy tackling challenging problems and are curious about how AI could become part of their research toolkit.
Application review process
Applications will be reviewed by a MATRIX-SMMC joint-committee.
The outcome of your application will be communicated to you by the MATRIX Programs Coordinator in early December 2026, following the meeting of the sub-committee in November 2026.
