About
I am a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics & Statistics at the University of New Mexico. You can reach me at ismert [ at ] unm [ dot ] edu.
I earned my Ph.D. in mathematics in 2019 from the University of Nebraska under the supervision of Dr. Allan Donsig and Dr. David Pitts. During 2019-2025, I was an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Research
My research is in operator algebras. I’m really interested in unbounded operator theory (both on Hilbert spaces and Hilbert C*-modules), Cuntz-Pimsner algebras, Co-semigroups, KMS states, and C*-algebras arising from quantum graphs. This work is supported by NSF DMS-2603107. My current position is primarily supported by Terry Loring‘s ARL grant “Quantifiable Topological Protection For Quantum Materials”. Our work focuses on signatures of topological insulators via C*-algebraic K-theory and joint spectrum techniques for noncommuting tuples of operators.
Service
I am also a co-organizer the Groundwork for Operator Algebras Lecture Series. I am a co-founder of the Operator Algebras Mentor Network (OAMN) and have served as board member and treasurer. In the latter role, I helped obtain non-profit status for OAMN. I continue to serve as a mentor.
A brief history
I grew up and went to school in Pittsburg, Kansas, where I earned a B.A. in English and B.S. in Mathematics in 2013 from Pittsburg State University. Throughout high school and undergrad, I was an avid theatre actor and also sang in a cover band. My math degree advisor Dr. Leah Childers took me (twice) to the Nebraska Conference for Undergraduate Women in Math, which grew my interest in pursuing a graduate degree. Over summer 2013 I attended the EDGE program in Sarasota, Florida, and one of my instructors, Dr. Chelsea Walton, inspired me to pursue mathematical research related to quantum mechanics.
Recent shenanigans
I like to act and sing in local theatre productions. A few of my recent roles include Helena in Laark’s Shakespeare in the Pines production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Olive in the Prescott Center for the Art’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and as an ensemble member in the new musical (locally written and produced) called Nosferatu: A Shadow Musical.
I also love to write, and lately it’s been poetry. I was a featured reader for my poems chosen for publication in the 2026 Edition of Threshold Magazine.
