Fran Burstall

Prof. Fran Burstall is a Professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Bath. His research focuses on geometric approaches to nonlinear equations in Differential Geometry and Theoretical Physics, particularly harmonic maps and isothermic surfaces using twistorial and soliton methods. He has contributed to Riemannian and parabolic geometries, with a strong emphasis on integrable systems and discrete differential geometry.

Research interests include geometric analysis, conformal and Riemannian geometry, harmonic maps, and applications in mathematical physics. He has been involved in collaborative projects such as the Topology of Quaternionic Manifolds and Analysis and Partial Differential Equations, funded by The Royal Society and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

His recent work explores harmonic Riemannian submersions, isothermic surfaces, and discrete geometry, with notable contributions to Lie applicable surfaces and quartic differential theories. Over 20 research outputs since 2016 highlight his expertise in geometric transformations and integrable systems.

He has supervised 6 doctoral students and has an extensive publication record spanning discrete surfaces, conformal geometry, and symmetric spaces.