Jonathan Pakianathan

Jonathan Pakianathan is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Rochester's School of Arts & Sciences, Department of Mathematics. He holds a PhD from Princeton University (1997) and a BS in Mathematics and Physics from Caltech (1992). His research focuses on algebraic topology, cohomology of groups and Lie algebras, geometric combinatorics, and finite fields. He has held leadership roles, including Director of Graduate Studies (2014–2020) and Director of Undergraduate Studies (2003–2010). Notable awards include the Goergen Award for Excellence in Teaching (2014) and the Sloan Foundation Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship (1996).

His research explores applications of topology and algebra in discrete geometry, often collaborating with Alex Iosevich and students. Recent work addresses topics like Fuglede's conjecture over finite fields, geometric configurations, and probabilistic methods in combinatorics. His articles frequently intersect harmonic analysis, group theory, and number theory, reflecting interdisciplinary strengths.

• Education:
  • PhD, Princeton University, 1997
  • BS in Mathematics and Physics, Caltech, 1992
• Awards:
  • Goergen Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching, 2014
  • Sloan Foundation Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship, 1996
  • H. J. Ryser Scholarship, 1991

Grants include an NSA Mathematical Sciences Grant (2016–2017, $110,000 total) with A. Iosevich. He advises numerous PhD students, many of whom now hold academic or research positions. His teaching spans undergraduate to graduate courses, including algebra, topology, and financial mathematics.

Research groups and collaborations extend to geometric combinatorics, algebraic topology, and applications in physics and data science. Ongoing projects explore topological methods in discrete geometry and probabilistic structures over finite fields.