The University of Montana Western Department of Mathematics invites all interested high school students to participate in UMW’s third annual BrainFest Mathematical Modeling Competition on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Swysgood Technology Center (STC) Great Room. Participants will have the chance to win a $500 or $250 scholarship to UMW.
BrainFest offers participants an immersive, hands-on, problem solving mathematical experience, showcasing the type of challenges Montana Western students and faculty tackle every block.
This year’s BrainFest competition, titled “Dragons of the Triassic Sea,” invites students to explore the evolution and diversification of ichthyosaurs and how their biomechanics adapted to new environments. Participants will use a computer program to design their own ichthyosaurs, aiming to create the most competitive morphology.
Once designs are complete, competitors will release their ichthyosaurs into an ecosystem simulator, where the models will compete against one another. The winner will be the student whose design proves to be the best ecological competitor.
The participants will be supported by Montana Western mathematics majors; and UMW mathematics professors will be on hand to pose questions and provide guidance throughout the process as well. This free event also includes lunch for all participants.
Students interested in the following topics are encouraged to sign up:
Mathematics and/or natural sciences (e.g., evolution, ecological competition, biomechanics, population dynamic modeling, mathematical modeling, life history, ichthyosaurs)
Problem-solving
Asking questions and designing projects to find answers
Collaborating with peers, math major mentors, and math professors
Building connections and having fun
“The UMW mathematics faculty are thrilled to offer BrainFest again. We enjoy preparing the event and guiding prospective students through the problem-solving process. Our favorite part is watching students’ curiosity grow as they explore the problem, ask deeper questions, and create even more innovative designs. Last year’s event was a great success, and we look forward to seeing what students come up with this year,” said BrainFest Coordinator and UMW Assistant Professor of Developmental Mathematics, Liz Wright.
To register for the competition, visit https://tinyurl.com/BrainFest2025. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. For more information, please contact Liz Wright at liz.wright@umwestern.edu.
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