Dr Alexander Cooper

My research interests lie within the field of mathematical physics, in particular, quantum integrable systems.  My work so far has focused primarily on the construction of Q-operators for open spn chains, such as the Heisenberg XXZ and XXX models with diagonal boundary, from the perspective of the representation theory of quantum affine algebras (and associated rational limits).

I am currently working on papers summarising and extending some results from my PhD research on algebraic structures underpinning XXZ/XXX Heiesnberg Spin Chain, and building collaborations in order to publish more broadly within the field of (quantum) integrability.  In collaboration with my summer student in 2015, we have developed a computational tool for drawing string diagrams of relevance in quantum integrability/tensor networks/category theory, which I hope will become part of a family of tools designed to improve communication, and hence accessibility for new researchers wanting to explore the field.

I am always happy to discuss my research (or yours!), especially with potential collaborators - please do get in touch!

I am currently working as an Postdoctoral Researcher within the school of Mathematical and Computer sciences.  Over the last three years, I have worked variously as an Assistant Professor and a postdoc within the department.

Since receiving my PhD here at Heriot-Watt in 2023, I have spent time developing my abilities as both a researcher and a lecturer.  I have had the pleasure of teaching the service course Maths for Engineers and Scientists 4 in the January semester 2014, and Discrete Mathematics to the first year undergraduates within the department on the Edinburgh campus.  My most recent teaching work has been involvement in the production of the course `F11DM Mathematical Tools for Data Science', which is designed to prepare conversion masters students in data science for more advanced topics.

As part of my roles, I have involved myself in outreach activities, primarily involving motivating school children to pursue an interest in maths, including delivering a Royal Institute Mathematics Masterclass, as well as visiting local schools to assist with `speed maths' events.  Within the university, I am keen to build links between the Maths department and our colleagues within Physics/Engineering - to this end, I am assisting with building momentum towards a regular shared seminar series between the two departments.

I completed my masters degree in Physics at the University of Bristol in 2016, and have had a range of experience in tutoring Maths and Physics both at school level (GCSE/A-Levels), and university.  This latter experience directly informs my approach to teaching and pedagogy, with an emphasis on creating an environment which promotes student confidence, in both approaching new topics, and asking questions related to the subject.