Stress-testing Algorithms, Solvers, and Models via Instance Space Analysis
June 3, 2025

Professor Kate Smith-Miles is a leading Australian mathematician and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Capability) at The University of Melbourne, where she also holds a Melbourne Laureate Professorship in Applied Mathematics. She directs the ARC Training Centre OPTIMA, which focuses on optimisation technologies.

With a PhD in Electrical Engineering and a B.Sc(Hons) in Mathematics from The University of Melbourne, her academic career began in 1996. She has authored two books and around 300 publications in neural networks, optimisation, and data mining, and has supervised over 30 PhD students. Her leadership roles have included positions at Monash University, President of the Australian Mathematical Society, and ARC College of Experts member.

She has secured over AUD$20 million in grants, including a prestigious Georgina Sweet Laureate Fellowship. Her Instance Space Analysis work led to the development of MATILDA, a benchmarking tool for algorithms. Professor Smith-Miles has received numerous accolades, including the AO in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours and fellowships in major scientific societies.

A dedicated mentor and advocate for women in STEM, she also consults widely with industry, applying her expertise in optimisation and intelligent systems to real-world challenges. Her career reflects excellence in research, leadership, and service to the mathematical sciences.