Rate My Professor Brendan Florio

Dr Brendan Florio is a Lecturer in Mathematics in the School of Mathematics, Statistics, Chemistry and Physics at Murdoch University, where he joined in November 2023. He also serves as Associate Dean of Engagement for Mathematics and Statistics. Florio earned his PhD in Mathematics and Statistics from The University of Western Australia between 2010 and 2012, achieving recognition on the Board of Graduate Research School Dean's List for his doctoral work. After his PhD, he completed a three-year postdoctoral position at the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Limerick, Ireland, followed by a postdoctoral role at CSIRO Mineral Resources in Perth. Prior to his current academic appointment, he taught mathematics at a public high school, which reinforced his dedication to inclusive and engaging mathematics education for students of all abilities.

Florio specializes in applied mathematics, with key research interests in continuum modelling, dynamical systems, mathematical modelling, and industrial mathematics. His publications address challenges in heat transfer, particle aggregation, phase change in materials, and geomathematical processes. Key works include 'Population balance modelling to describe the particle aggregation process: A review' (Powder Technology, 2018, with Ricardo I. Jeldres and Phillip D. Fawell), 'Near-Exact Radiating Fins via Boundary Tracing' (SIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics, 2022, with Conway Li, Neville Fowkes, and Miccal Matthews), 'The development of deep-ocean anoxia in a palaeo-sea' (GEM - International Journal on Geomathematics, 2023, with JG Donohue and A.C. Fowler), and 'Exact solutions of line-source conduction–radiation problems via boundary tracing' (2024, with Conway Li, Neville Fowkes, and Miccal Matthews). With over 320 citations across 28 publications, his research impacts minerals processing, environmental modelling, and engineering applications. Florio received the College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Learning and Teaching Award in November 2025 for his innovative collaborative tutorial methods that foster student engagement and confidence. He contributes to Mathematics in Industry Study Groups as a moderator and participant, bridging academia and industry.