Niny Arcila-Maya

Niny Arcila-Maya is an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at San Francisco State University (SFSU), part of the College of Science & Engineering. She holds a PhD from the University of British Columbia (2021) and completed postdoctoral work at Duke University as a William W. Elliott Assistant Research Professor under Kirsten Wickelgren and Veronica Ciocanel. Her research focuses on algebraic topology, topological data analysis, and mathematics education, with interdisciplinary applications in biology, climate science, and social justice.

Education:

• B.Sc. (Magna Cum Laude) in Mathematics, Universidad Nacional de Colombia (2013)
• M.Sc. in Mathematics, Universidad Nacional de Colombia (2016)
• Ph.D. in Mathematics, University of British Columbia (2021)

Research Interests: Niny studies topological Azumaya algebras and applies algebraic topology to real-world problems. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and TDA’s role in addressing societal challenges. She is committed to inclusive teaching strategies aligned with the Narrative Change pillar of the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation Framework.

Grants & Mentoring: Supported by the Simons Foundation, she co-leads Pares Ordenados, a Spanish-language Directed Reading Program for Latin American students. This initiative has engaged 78 participants from 10 countries since 2023. She mentors undergraduates in research and volunteers with the Association of Women in Mathematics.

Awards:

• Featured in Lathisms 2024 Calendar
• Member of SFSU’s Black and Latinx/e Student Success Cohort