Vin de Silva

Vin de Silva is a Professor of Mathematics and Statistics at Pomona College, part of The Claremont Colleges, since 2005. His work focuses on applying geometry and topology to data analysis, sensor networks, and machine learning. He holds a D.Phil. from Oxford University and a Master of Arts from Cambridge University.

Research interests include Applied Algebraic Topology, Machine Learning, and Topological Data Analysis. His notable contributions span persistent homology, sensor network coverage, and tensor decomposition. He has collaborated with leading researchers like Robert Ghrist and Gunnar Carlsson.

Recent publications include work on Zigzag Persistent Homology (2009), sensor network algorithms (2007), and tensor rank analysis (2008). His research emphasizes geometric insights in interdisciplinary problems.

• Awards:
• 2012: Pomona College Wig Distinguished Professor Award for Excellence in Teaching
• 2007: Scientific American SciAm 50 Award for sensor network coverage algorithms

Teaches courses like Combinatorics, Differential Equations/Modeling, and Topics in Geometry and Topology. His grants and lab activities focus on computational topology and data science applications.