Christopher Chong

Christopher Chong is an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Bowdoin College, where he has been employed since 2015, rising from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor in 2022. His research focuses on applied mathematics within mathematical physics, particularly nonlinear partial differential and difference equations with applications in wave phenomena across multiple physical systems.

Education:

• PhD in Mathematics, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (2009)
• MS in Applied Mathematics, San Diego State University (2006)
• BS in Mathematics and Computer Science, University of New Hampshire (2004)

Professor Chong's work centers on nonlinear wave equations that model diverse physical systems including optics, photonics, condensed matter, acoustics, and water waves. His research methodology emphasizes the synergy between mathematical analysis, computational approaches, and experimental validation. He specializes in granular crystals, discrete systems, and coherent structures like breathers, solitons, and dispersive shock waves, with significant contributions documented in his 2018 SpringerBriefs book "Coherent Structures in Granular Crystals" co-authored with Panayotis G. Kevrekidis.

His extensive publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to nonlinear wave theory, with recent work focusing on time-modulated systems, phononic crystals, and mathematical characterization of dispersive shock waves. His research shows a strong progression toward increasingly complex systems with temporal variations and heterogeneous properties, resulting in editor's selections and coverage in Physics Magazine.

Scientific Recognition:

• NSF Grant DMS-2107945 (2021-2024)
• NSF Grant DMS-1615037
• Fulbright Award (2024-2025)
• Simons/AMS Travel Award for Junior Mathematicians

Professor Chong actively mentors undergraduate researchers, having supervised numerous students on projects related to granular crystals and nonlinear waves. His students have produced honors theses and peer-reviewed publications. He co-organizes the Nonlinear Waves and Coherent Structures Webinar series and maintains extensive collaborations with experimental groups at UC San Diego, Caltech, CNRS in Le Mans, and the University of Washington, creating a strong bridge between theoretical mathematics and physical experimentation in nonlinear wave dynamics.

His teaching portfolio includes Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Biomathematics, and Calculus, with a philosophy emphasizing conceptual understanding over rote memorization, as illustrated by his reference to Karl Smith's fable about learning mathematics.