Richard Sutton

I completed both my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Swansea University, obtaining a B.Sc. (Hons) in 2010 and an M.Sc. in 2011. My postgraduate studies were centred on the interdisciplinary application of mathematics within the domain of Computer Science. My Master’s thesis involved the analysis, implementation, and enhancement of a range of approximate string matching algorithms, with a particular focus on their applicability in bioinformatics. This included work on the Bitap algorithm, as well as the Needleman–Wunsch and Smith–Waterman algorithms—both of which required extensive use of matrix-based techniques. The developed methods were applied to the identification of harmful DNA sequences within biological samples.

At the undergraduate level, my academic focus lay in the statistical foundations underpinning management and actuarial science. My final-year dissertation examined the impact of meteorological conditions on business performance in Wales. This study entailed a large-scale, empirical analysis of real-world time series data, incorporating advanced statistical techniques such as data de-seasonalisation and correlation analysis.

I currently teach and lead across a range of modules delivered within both full-time and part-time degrees:

• Engineering Mathematics
• Analytical Methods
• Further Mathematics
• Introduction to Mathematics and Science
• Integrating Project
• Group Project

I have also previously delivered Engineering Science and Study Skills modules.

My main teaching responsibilities involve the design and delivery of mathematical content for the Engineering School, with a focus on increasing mathematical literacy. I also established and developed mathematics and engineering science support sessions, which have been running since their inception in 2011.

My undergraduate part-time project supervisions are primarily focused on industry-based projects undertaken by students within their professional engineering environments, involving collaboration with companies such as Tata Steel, Aston Martin, and Renishaw.

Previously served as an external lecturer for Inlingua on behalf of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (formerly Swansea Metropolitan University), delivering Engineering-focused modules to international students concurrently undertaking English language studies.