Wan R. Mekwi

PhD Mathematics (Numerical Analysis) | Mathematics Educator & Researcher

Professional Profile

A mathematics expert with a PhD in Numerical Analysis from the University of Strathclyde and an MSc from the University of Oxford. With over 15 years of experience in mathematics education, research, and computational mathematics, specialising in numerical methods for partial differential equations, scientific computing, and mathematical modelling.

Expertise encompasses applied mathematics and practical computation, having published multiple peer-reviewed papers in prestigious journals including the IMA Journal of Numerical Analysis. Demonstrable proficiency in algorithm development, research methodology, and the communication of complex mathematical concepts to diverse audiences.

Experience

Lecturer in Mathematics

Jan 2024 - Dec 2025

University of the West of Scotland

  • Co-supervised PhD student conducting advanced mathematical research in numerical methods and computational mathematics
  • Designed challenging mathematical problems and assessments for SCQF levels 7-10, requiring deep understanding of student learning barriers
  • Applied for and secured research funding to support computational mathematics objectives
  • Supervised final year project students on advanced mathematics topics including numerical analysis and scientific computing

Teaching Fellow in Mathematics

Mar 2017 - Jan 2024

University of the West of Scotland

  • Designed and delivered mathematics courses at all university undergraduate levels, creating diverse problem sets to challenge students across ability ranges
  • Integrated computing tools (Python, MATLAB, Octave, CAS Maxima) into mathematics curriculum, bridging theoretical and computational approaches
  • Developed cross-disciplinary modules for STEM students, requiring synthesis of mathematical concepts across multiple domains
  • Created assessment tools and problems testing deep understanding rather than memorisation
  • Played key role in mathematics degree programme development, ensuring curriculum rigour and alignment with research standards

Teacher of Mathematics

Aug 2013 - Feb 2017

Secondary Schools (Craigholme, Eastwood High, Dumbarton Academy)

  • Developed challenging problem sets and curricula for secondary mathematics, adapting difficulty to student needs
  • Created assessment materials testing conceptual understanding and problem-solving abilities
  • Monitored student progress through regular assessments, identifying knowledge gaps and tailoring instruction accordingly

Mathematics Tutor

Aug 2011 - 2018

Self-Employed

  • Provided one-to-one tutoring across all levels from secondary to MSc, creating customised problem sets for individual student challenges
  • Developed explanations and problems for diverse mathematical topics, demonstrating versatility and deep subject knowledge

Junior Actuarial Consultant

Sep 2007 - Feb 2011

Hymans Robertson LLP, Glasgow

  • Conducted complex actuarial valuations and data validation requiring meticulous attention to detail and precision in mathematical calculations
  • Developed sophisticated analytical tools using VBA and Excel, demonstrating strong programming and quantitative problem-solving abilities
  • Prepared technical reports communicating complex mathematical concepts to diverse audiences, whilst completing six professional actuarial examinations

Skills & Technologies

Mathematical Expertise

Numerical Analysis, Partial Differential Equations, Scientific Computing, Mathematical Modelling, Algorithm Development, and Communication of Complex Concepts to non-Experts

Programming & Tools

Python, MATLAB, Julia, R, Octave, CAS Maxima, LaTeX, AI Integration in Workflows, and Computational Mathematics

Research & Communication

Academic Writing, Peer-Reviewed Publications, Problem Design, Technical Presentations, and Research Methodology

Education

Ph.D. Mathematics (Numerical Analysis)

2001 - 2006

University of Strathclyde

  • Thesis: Adaptive solution of partial differential equations using mesh movement and refinement
  • Research required extensive abstract reasoning, problem-solving, and algorithm development for complex PDE systems
  • Developed novel computational methods implemented in MATLAB and MAPLE for solving challenging mathematical problems
  • Published research in peer-reviewed journals including IMA Journal of Numerical Analysis
  • Presented research at international conferences in UK and abroad

M.Sc. Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing

2000 - 2001

University of Oxford

  • Thesis: Iterative Methods for Roots of Polynomials (sponsored by Numerical Algorithms Group)
  • Completed projects in numerical methods, option pricing, and mathematical physiology under tight weekly deadlines
  • Developed expertise in FORTRAN 77 and MATLAB for implementing sophisticated numerical algorithms
  • Awarded Commonwealth scholarship for academic excellence

B.Sc. Honours (First Class) Mathematics with Computer Science

1996 - 1999

University of Buea, Cameroon

  • First student to achieve first class degree in department history
  • Received best Mathematics student of the year award
  • Studied complex analysis, group theory, algorithms, data structures, calculus, linear algebra, computer programming and more

Selected Publications

Mackenzie, J. A. & Mekwi, W. R. (2020). An hr-adaptive method for the cubic nonlinear Schrödinger equation. Journal of Computational and Applied Mathematics, 364, 112320. [View Paper]

Mackenzie, J. A. & Mekwi, W. R. (2012). An unconditionally stable second-order accurate ALE–FEM scheme for two-dimensional convection–diffusion problems. IMA Journal of Numerical Analysis, 32(3), 888-921. [View Paper]

Mackenzie, J. A. & Mekwi, W. R. (2007). An analysis of stability and convergence of a finite-difference discretization of a model parabolic PDE in 1D using a moving mesh. IMA Journal of Numerical Analysis, 27(3), 507-528. [View Paper]

Mackenzie, J. A. & Mekwi, W. R. (2007). On the Use of Moving Mesh Methods to Solve PDEs. In Adaptive Computations: Theory and Algorithms, Mathematics Monograph Series 6 (pp. 243-278). Science Press Beijing.

Bakhshi, A., Mekwi, W. R., Nisbet, K. C. & Walker, A. J. (2021). Measuring the success of mathematics and statistics support sessions at UWS. MSOR Connections, 19(2). [View Paper]

Professional Affiliations

Professional Profile

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