Paul Wedrich

Prof. Paul Wedrich is a full professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Hamburg, affiliated with the MIN-Faculty. His roles include spokesperson for the Mathematisches Seminar, ERASMUS coordinator, and equal opportunity representative. He leads research in quantum topology, categorification, and representation theory, with a focus on link homology and topological quantum field theories. Wedrich earned his PhD from the University of Cambridge (2015), preceded by a Master of Advanced Study (2012) and a Bachelor's from Universität Wien (2011).

He is a PI in the Cluster of Excellence Quantum Universe and a member of the Collaborative Research Center on Higher Structures. His research explores connections between algebra and topology, including Soergel bimodules, Khovanov homology, and quantum invariants. Recent work includes advancements in categorified TQFTs and applications to 4-manifold invariants. Wedrich supervises multiple doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, including projects on knot homology and categorification. His team manages the department's multimedia studio and hosts the international Náboj mathematics competition in Hamburg. Notable awards include his Higher Education Academy fellowship.

Teaching highlights include courses on linear algebra, algebra, and topology, alongside organizing conferences and workshops. Upcoming activities include a summer school on higher structures and a research conference on diagrammatic categorification.