Dr Ilaria Colazzo

Profile

I am currently a Lecturer in Pure Mathematics at the University of Leeds, UK. I obtained my Ph.D. in Mathematics and Informatics from the University of Salento, Italy, under the supervision of Prof. F. Catino. Before joining Leeds, I held postdoctoral positions at:

• University of Exeter, UK – Hosted by Prof. N. Byott
• Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium – Hosted by Prof. E. Jespers
• University of Salento, Italy – Hosted by Prof. Prof. F. Catino

Beyond research, I actively organise conferences and workshops, including:

• The Yang-Baxter Equation and All That (Bedlewo, Poland, 2025) – with T. Brzeziński and L. Vendramin.
• Biracks and Biquandles: Theory, Applications, and New Perspectives (Leeds, UK, 2024) – with J. Faria Martins, M. Szymik, and F. Torzewska.
• Skew Braces, Braids, and the Yang-Baxter Equation (Banff, Canada, 2024) – with J. Plavnik, E. Rowell, and L. Vendramin.
• Oberwolfach Mini-Workshop: Skew Braces and the Yang–Baxter Equation (Oberwolfach, Germany, 2023) – with T. Brzeziński, A. Doikou, and L. Vendramin.

Research interests

My research lies at the intersection of non-commutative algebra, group theory, and mathematical physics. I focus on algebraic structures such as skew braces and their generalisation, which play a key role in equations like the Yang-Baxter and Pentagon equations. In addition, I use computer algebra systems, particularly GAP, to explore and analyse these structures, providing computational insights that complement the theoretical aspects of my work.

Qualifications

• (2017) Ph.D., Mathematics and Informatics University of Salento (Italy)
• (2012) M.S., Mathematics University of Salento (Italy)
• (2009) B.S., Mathematics University of Salento (Italy)

Student education

As a Lecturer in Pure Mathematics, I contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate education by teaching and supervising students in various areas of pure mathematics. I am also involved in student supervision, guiding projects and dissertations related to my research areas. Beyond formal teaching, I actively engage in academic mentoring, providing support and advice to students as they navigate their studies and research interests.