Welcome to my website--I'm glad you're here! I am passionate about mathematics, teaching, and helping individuals flourish!
I am currently an assistant professor at Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. Previously I earned my PhD from the University of Iowa in the Mathematics Department. I invite you to view the highlights below or visit my curriculum vitae for more details.
Elise Askelsen
PhD, Mathematics
Assistant Professor, Seaver College
Pepperdine University
Email:
Phone:
(310) 506 - 7317
Office:
RAC 120
EDUCATION
2020-2025
PhD Mathematics
The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Study mathematics with an emphasis in representation theory, quiver representations, and Hopf algebras. Will also complete the Certificate in College Teaching and BUILD certificate.
2016-2020
Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics Secondary Education
Central College, Pella, IA
Studied mathematics secondary education, was a part of the Central Teacher Academy, the women's soccer team, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Graduated with honors.
WORK EXPERIENCE
2025-Present
Pepperdine University
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Invest in undergraduate students through classroom instruction, scholarly activities, and mentorship. Contribute to the life of the university.
2020-2025
Teaching Assistant
University of Iowa
Led engaging discussion sections where my students actively participated in class. Assisted in the course redesign of MATH 1440:Mathematics for the Biological Sciences. Took on more administrative duties as a lead TA. Was named 2022-2023 Outstanding TA. Also tutored students of in all courses in the Math Tutorial Lab.
2023
University of Iowa
Lead Teaching Assistant
Served as the first Lead Teaching Assistant in the Mathematics Department and assisted in defining the role. Duties included updating the course website, assisting in designing activities and assessments, responding to student emails, coordinating make-up work and accommodations, and more.
2017-2020
Central College
Upward Bound Tutor Counselor
Assisted in classes, tutored students outside of class, fostered an inclusive community among students, and supervised activities. Encouraged and prepared first generation students for college.
RESEARCH EXPERTISE
Topological Data Analysis
Hopf Quivers
Specializing in Persistent Homology, I specifically am interested in questions about stability and application.
Classifying actions of Hopf algebras on path quivers is of particular interest to me.
Communicating Confidence in Math
I am passionate about communicating mathematics in a way that is accessible to students and builds their confidence in their abilities.
Honors
University of Iowa Outstanding Teaching Assistant
(AY 2022-2023)
Erwin and Peggy Kleinfeld Scholar
(2023-2025)
Dale T. Peer Scholar
2023
Central College
Geisler Penquite Scholar
2016-2020