Rate My Professor Christian Hellings

Christian (Chris) J. Hellings is an Assistant Professor, Academic General Faculty, Teaching Track, in Applied Mathematics at the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science. Originally from Philadelphia, he earned a B.A. in mathematics and physics from La Salle University. He then attended the University of Virginia as a graduate student, receiving his Ph.D. in mathematics. Prior to academia, Hellings served as a mathematical analyst for Metron Inc., a consulting company in Northern Virginia. From 2004 to 2020, he was a member of the mathematics faculty at Gwynedd Mercy University, where he taught a wide variety of undergraduate mathematics courses, coordinated the mathematics program, and acted as faculty mentor for the Student Association of Science. In 2020, Hellings returned to UVA, joining the applied mathematics program within the School of Engineering and Applied Science, initially associated with the Department of Engineering and Society, to teach applied mathematics.

Hellings' research interests include operator theory, indefinite inner product spaces, complex function theory, the mathematics of voting, and undergraduate mathematics education. He teaches key courses such as APMA 2120 Multivariable Calculus, APMA 3100 Probability, and differential equations. W. Bernard Carlson, Joseph L. Vaughn Professor of Humanities and chair of the Department of Engineering and Society, welcomed Hellings back to UVA, stating: “His excellence as an educator make him a perfect fit to complement our faculty. The applied math curriculum is a critical part of a UVA Engineering education, as it allows our students to develop a high level of analytical and problem-solving skills... Chris knows how to connect with students to make sure they are equipped to thrive, both in their undergraduate studies as well as in their careers.” Hellings' office is in Small Hall A112D.