Anh Tran

Anh Tran is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), affiliated with the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. His research focuses on knot theory, with particular emphasis on quantum topology, the Jones polynomial, skein modules, character varieties, and left-orderability of fundamental groups. He holds a Ph.D. from Georgia Institute of Technology (2012) and a B.S. from Vietnam National University (2004). Prior to UTD, he served as a Ross Assistant Professor at The Ohio State University (2012–2014) and as a Lecturer at Vietnam National University (2004–2006).

Tran's research explores foundational questions in knot theory, including the AJ conjecture, hyperbolic torsion polynomials, and minimality of rational knots. His work bridges algebraic topology, geometric topology, and representation theory, with applications to quantum invariants and character varieties. Recent studies investigate left-orderable fundamental groups in cyclic branched coverings of knots and the interplay between knot polynomials and topological structures.

His notable contributions include proofs of stronger versions of the AJ conjecture for specific knot families and advancements in understanding the volume conjecture for cable knots. He has co-authored over 30 publications in top-tier journals like the Journal of Knot Theory and Its Ramifications, Algebraic & Geometric Topology, and Pacific Journal of Mathematics. His work often involves collaborations with experts such as Thang T.Q. Le and T. Morifuji.

Tran advises students like J. Dean and maintains an active role in academic seminars, including the Geometry & Topology Seminar at UTD. His research has been supported by grants focusing on knot invariants and topological structures, though specific grant details are not explicitly listed in the provided materials.