Skip to content

Mathematics Subject Spotlight

Is mathematics the key to perfect race car?
with Dr Janet Godolphin from the University of Surrey

Try this university course before you apply - 100% free!

Watch a sample episode now

Join Dr Janet Godolphin as she explores the links between decision mathematics and product design. Introducing you to key concepts of graph theory, she demonstrates how mathematics can be applied to design the perfect race car.

Dr Janet GodolphinUniversity of SurreyMathematics

All episodes
1. Data and decision-making
2. Vertex colourings
3. Using proper vertex colouring to determine which data to collect
4. Opportunity to apply what you’ve learnt

About the university


University of Surrey
University of Surrey
University of Surrey

The University of Surrey is a global community of more than 16,000 students from 140 countries. Based on a lovely, leafy campus in buzzy Guildford, The University of Surrey boasts gorgeous countryside to the south and west, and London half an hour to the east. It’s the perfect setting for a challenging and rewarding university experience that creates incredible memories and helps you achieve your ambitions. With a focus on practice-based learning, supported by outstanding teaching, laboratory and simulation facilities in every faculty, Surrey is ranked first in the UK for work placements and graduate employability.

University of Surrey profile →
Meet the academic
Dr Janet Godolphin

Janet Godolphin is an Associate Professor of Statistics at the University of Surrey, in the School of Mathematics and Physics. After A-levels, Janet completed a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics at Royal Holloway, University of London and then decided to focus on Statistics, going on to achieve a PhD in Statistics, also at Royal Holloway. Janet's work at the University of Surrey is divided between research and teaching activities. Her main research expertise is the Design of Experiments, in particular working on theoretical advances in this area. Other research includes planning data collection and analysing the resultant data to investigate and evaluate new veterinary techniques. Janet chairs the Mathematics Board of Studies. This Board manages the Mathematics programmes of study offered at the University of Surrey and works to monitor and enhance the quality of teaching and learning and the student experience.

In every Subject Spotlight you’ll find


On-demand interactive video content

Sign up, log in and access a wide range of potentially life-changing Subject Spotlight experiences that will help you make informed decisions about your university future.

Remarkable & relatable academics

Learn from some of the UK’s finest and most decorated academics as they give you a genuine, insightful and engaging experience of studying their courses at their universities.

Interactive quizzes and activities

Have a go at fascinating interactive quizzes and activities, then get meaningful and intuitive feedback from the academics to see how you’ve done.

Content to enhance students’ personal statements

Hear direct from the academics what’s expected of you in your personal statements, and the things you can do to improve your chances of getting on the course you most desire!

Certificate of completion

You’ll receive a certificate of completion to evidence your learning - why not add this to your CV and university applications to show your dedication to your future pathway!

Frequently asked questions


What is a Subject Spotlight?
Why should I check out Subject Spotlights?
Who is this Spotlight for?
How should I talk about completing a Subject Spotlight on my personal statement?