Jonathan Lopez

PhD

Jonathan Lopez.

Jonathan Lopez

PhD

Jonathan Lopez

PhD

Research Topics

Algebraic topology, group theory, and Lie algebras, especially Lie algebras associated to congruence subgroups and cohomology of congruence subgroups; linearity of groups; digital topology; using graph theory to understand algebraic and geometric properties of linear operators.

Overview Publications

Summary

Dr. Lopez is a Western New York native and a Canisius College alumnus. He received a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Rochester in 2010. Dr. Lopez has been teaching locally ever since, and has also been affiliated with actuarial services at BlueCross BlueShield of WNY since 2007, consulting on a variety of special projects.

Dr. Lopez enjoys teaching a wide range of statistics courses, especially those that involve statistical methodology used in the actuarial profession. His teaching methods are aimed at helping students develop an appreciation for the usefulness and elegance of statistics. A special emphasis is placed on getting students to see "the big picture".

He likes to get students involved during class in a number of ways, including direct questioning, group work, or problem solving at the board. A fundamental skill that needs to be developed in any statistics course is the ability to interpret and coherently explain results to others. Many careers in statistics require the explanation of results to non-experts, and Dr. Lopez helps students begin to develop this skill in all of his courses.

Dr. Lopez has a number of research interests, including Lie algebras associated to congruence subgroups, cohomology of congruence subgroups, linearity of groups, digital topology, and the use of graph theory to determine algebraic and geometric properties of linear operators.

Education

  • PhD in Mathematics, May 2010
    University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
    Thesis: On Lie Algebras and Cohomology Associated to Congruence Subgroups
  • MA in Mathematics, May 2006
    University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
  • BA in Mathematics, May 2003
    Canisius College, Buffalo, NY
    Concentration: Stati