Featured scientist: Prof Eric Andriantiana
Prof Eric Andriantiana, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Mathematics at Rhodes University, is a leading researcher in Graph Theory and Combinatorics, where abstract mathematical tools are used to understand complex networks.
Born in Madagascar, he began his academic journey at the École Normale Supérieure, University of Fianarantsoa, where he studied Mathematics and Mathematics Education. He later attended the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences before completing both his MSc and PhD in Mathematics at Stellenbosch University, specialising in graph theory.
Research and Contribution
His research focuses on characterising the structure of networks that optimise specific parameters. In particular, he investigates graph invariants based on independent sets, such as the Hosoya index and Merrifield–Simmons index; spectral invariants, including the Estrada index and graph energy; and distance-based measures like the Wiener index and their variants.
With Dr Zekhaya Shozi, he recently introduced the notion of nearly independent subsets, which generalises the well-known concept of independent subsets. This work exemplifies his broader research approach, which often develops generalised theorems applicable to multiple classes of graphs and a variety of graph invariants.
Featured Talk
In his NITheCS colloquium titled “How independent are independent subsets?”, Prof Andriantiana revisited one of the most studied parameters in chemical graph theory.
Traditionally, an independent set is defined as a set of vertices with no direct connections. In this talk, he introduced a generalised perspective that gradually relaxes the independence condition by allowing up to k connections, leading to the notion of k-nearly independent subsets. Interesting similarities and differences in the behaviour of the associated parameters as k varies were also discussed. By extending a classical concept, the work opens new directions for analysing networks where strict independence is too limiting.
Teaching and Mentorship
Prof Andriantiana is deeply committed to developing mathematical talent. His teaching spans:
- Algebra and real analysis
- Discrete mathematics
- Algebraic graph theory
He has supervised numerous student projects—from honours to PhD level—covering topics such as graph energy, matchings, and clustering techniques for image segmentation.
His involvement in programmes at AIMS, as well as national mathematics Olympiad training initiatives, highlights his role in strengthening mathematical education across Africa.
Community and Leadership
Beyond research and teaching, he contributes actively to the broader mathematical community through:
- Coordination roles in mathematics Olympiad training
- Editorial board membership and peer review for international journals
- Engagement in collaborative research networks
These efforts support both academic excellence and the development of future scientists.
Prof Andriantiana’s work reflects a balance that lies at the heart of modern mathematical science: deep theoretical insight paired with meaningful academic and community impact. From advancing research in Graph Theory to mentoring the next generation of mathematicians across institutions like the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, his contributions continue to shape both the discipline and its future.
Through his research, teaching, and leadership, he embodies the kind of scholarship NITheCS seeks to highlight rigorous, forward-thinking, and rooted in developing scientific excellence across the continent.
