Profile
Jakini Kauba
Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
Graduate Research Assistant
Educational Background
BS, Biological Sciences: Human Biology, North Carolina State University, 2017
MS, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, NC A&T SU, 2019
BA, Mathematics, UNC - Greensboro, 2020
MA, Mathematics, UNC - Greensboro, 2022
Profile/About Me
Hi there! I'm Jakini (she/hers), originally from Maxton, NC, but have lived in ten different cities all over North Carolina. My hobbies include dancing (bachata), singing, playing games with friends, and learning to cook new meals. I love basketball and am always trying to find a consistent way to work out, but keep finding excuses as to why I don't have time (haha). My favorite color is blue, but I'm tryin to branch out to purple, pink, and maroon.
Research Interests
While I have a background in Topological Data Analysis, Data Analysis, and a strong interest in algebraic practices, my current research interests involve computational biology by way of stochastic processes through a social justice lens. I identify as a mathematician who uses her skills to serve our communities and make our nation more equitable and inclusive (many call this "Quantitative Justice"). I am excited to learn how math and biology overlap in addition to better understanding how various coding techniques can apply.
Research Group (Lab)
I proudly work in the Cook Lab where I aim to learn more about Optimal Transport and Spatial Poisson Processes. I look forward to diving into these topics and further investigating the many applications to biological systems that can change the way we view medical practices in various communities, ultimately enhancing the cultural competencies of both our mental and physical medical fields.
Selected Publications
Statistical models of ballot truncation in ranked choice elections (2024)
Topological Analysis of U.S. City Demographics (2024)
Selected Talks
(2024): "The Quantification of Endosomal Escape using Spatial Poisson Processes"
(2023): "A Topological Analysis of US City Demographics" at the Math Association of America (MAA) MathFest in Tampa, Florida. (Invited Talk)
Memberships
National Association of Mathematicians (NAM)
Mathematical Association of America (MAA)
Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM)
American Mathematical Society (AMS)
Expected Graduation
May 2027
Links
LinkedIn Profile
Statistical models of ballot truncation in ranked choice elections (2024)
