cv
Here is a web description of my CV. You can read on, or download it as a PDF using the button above.
General information
Name | Sam Kay |
Label | Mathematician, freelance musician and private tutor |
samuel.kay[at]durham.ac.uk | |
Url | BlueSky, GitHub, LinkedIn |
Summary | An incoming PhD student at Durham University specialising in astrophysical fluid dynamics. |
Education
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2021 - 2025 Durham, UK
Integrated Master of Mathematics (MMath)
Durham University
In my fourth year of an integrated master's degree in mathematics with a predicted first class grade. Main pathway involves mathematical physics and fluid dynamics. Involved with the Mathematical Society. Current modules:
- Advanced Quantum Theory
- General Relativity
- Geophysical and Astrophysical Fluids
- Superstrings
Projects
- 2024 - Present
The Standard Model from a Symmetry Perspective
Researching the construction of the standard model of particle physics via gauge theories and spontaneous symmetry breaking. This forms part of my MMath research project under the supervision of Dr Madalena Lemos.
- Representation theory
- Mathematical physics
- Particle physics
- 2024 - Present
Chalkdust magazine
Writing and editing for a popular maths magazine that is distributed nationally among universities. I sometimes go by the cryptic setter name Seuss.
- 2023 - Present
Chalkboard Ultra podcast
Hosting a podcast bringing light to all areas of maths with conversations among peers, PhD students and lecturers at the university. Most recent episodes:
Work experience
-
2023 - Present Summer camp councillor
Island Lake Camp
Mentor and councillor for children aged 6-16 at a sleepaway summer camp in Pennsylvania, USA. Worked three summers in various departments:
- Summer 2025 in Rockshop
- Summer 2024 in Outdoor Adventure
- Summer 2023 in STEM
-
2023 - Present Bartender
Stephenson Central
Responsible for managing the bar through promotions, selling, transactions, stock control and ensuring a smooth operation.
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2022 - Present Maths and science tutor
MyTutor.co.uk
Tutoring in a classroom environment via video call and private tutoring with a 100% return business.
Volunteering
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2025 - Present Stephenson College
Maths subject representative
Stephenson College JCR
Point of guidance and contact for students regarding mathematical sciences. It is an advisory role for those needing help with exam techniques, module choices and general academic issues.
-
2023 - 2025 Butler College
President and lead pianist
Butler Jazz and Butler Soul Band
Leading two bands after being the lead pianist for two years and librarian for one year prior. Involved directing rehearsals, booking gigs, organising charity events, overseeing the executive team and managing band finances.
- Toured Liverpool with concerts at Liverpool Arts Bar and the Southport Salvation Army
- Organised 13 gigs and four charity events throughout the academic year
- Associated with Butler Jazz cakes
Achievements
3x College Scholar award | ||
Stephenson College | 2023 - 2025 |
3x competitor | ||
24 Hours of Le Maths | 2022 - 2024 |
Regional finals competitor | ||
UKMT senior team maths challenge | 2020 |
Younge Award for music | ||
Kettlethorpe High School | 2019 |
Maureen Winderbank trophy | ||
Kettlethorpe High School | 2019 |
Head Boy | ||
Kettlethorpe High School | 2018 - 2019 |
Skills
Programming | |
LaTeX (Overleaf/TeXShop) | |
Python | |
HTML | |
Desmos | |
VisualPDE |
Soft skills | |
Teamwork | |
Problem solving | |
Organisation | |
Data analytics | |
Critical thinking | |
Report writing | |
Presentation skills |
Miscellaneous | |
Microsoft Excel | |
Canva | |
Sleight of hand and card magic |
Interests
Mathematical sciences | |
Fluid dynamics | |
Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) | |
Quantum field theory (QFT) | |
Representation theory in particle physics | |
The Standard Model |
Music | |
Current lead pianist and keytar player for Quantum Funk Theory (QFT) | |
Lead pianist turned librarian turned president for Butler Jazz and Butler Soul Band |
Fitness | |
Regularly attend the gym and trained towards a black belt in Tae Kwon-Do | |
Enjoy long walks in unspoilt contryside |
References
Dr Adam Townsend | |
Assistant professor at Durham University. Co-founder of Chalkdust magazine and VisualPDE. |
Andrew Hough | |
Associate professor at Cranfield University. CEO, director and founder of Institute of Sales Professionals (ISP). |