Analysis is the branch of mathematics that is concerned with limiting processes, and functional analysis is the subbranch that deals with infinite-dimensional phenomena. Functional analysis received a major impetus from the advent of quantum mechanics, where the models involve linear operators on infinite-dimensional spaces. Operator algebra was developed as a framework for studying systems of linear operators, and is an important tool in many areas of modern mathematics.

Astrid is a functional analyst who specialises in operator algebras that impinge on other areas of modern mathematics such as dynamics, graph theory, number theory and harmonic analysis. She studies operator algebras associated to dynamical systems, combinatorial structures such as directed graphs, and groups and groupoids. The broad idea is to see properties of the operator algebra reflected in the underlying structure. Recently, Astrid has become interested in purely algebraic versions of the operator algebras of graphs and groupoids.

Astrid's research group includes; Prof Iain Raeburn, AProf Lisa Clark, and postdoc Dr Camila Senhem who is supported by their joint Marsden grant. The group has strong international links, and an active program of collaboration spanning four continents.