Keith Conrad is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Connecticut (UConn), part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on Number Theory, particularly in areas such as algebraic and analytic number theory, prime numbers, arithmetic geometry, and modular forms. He has published extensively on topics like congruent numbers, prime specialization, and the Möbius function. His work integrates classical number theory with modern algebraic techniques, contributing to foundational understanding in the field. Conrad is actively involved in academic outreach, organizing and teaching at programs like the Ross Mathematics Program and PROMYS. He has delivered lectures on advanced topics such as L-functions, the Riemann Hypothesis, and the ABC conjecture. His expository papers and teaching materials emphasize clarity and accessibility, bridging gaps between complex mathematical concepts and broader audiences. Conrad's academic contributions include significant publications in journals like *Mathematics Magazine* and *Journal für die reine und angewandte Mathematik*, as well as expository works on modular forms, prime patterns, and historical aspects of representation theory. He maintains a comprehensive website with resources for students and researchers, including detailed lecture notes, problem sets, and links to mathematical tools and software.
Cynthia Sung is an Associate Professor in the Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics department at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Engineering and Applied Science, with secondary appointments in Computer and Information Science and Electrical and Systems Engineering. She directs the Sung Robotics Lab, focusing on computational methods for robot design, origami robotics, planning for distributed systems, and fabrication of reconfigurable systems. Her lab is funded by NSF, ONR, ARO, NASA, and Penn Health-Tech. Her research spans four key areas: Computational co-design integrating mechanical, electronic, and software components Soft/origami robotics leveraging compliance for adaptable systems Distributed planning for multi-robot coordination Novel fabrication techniques for deployable structures Publications show consistent focus on robotic mechanisms with recent trends in magnetic origami reconfiguration (2025), underwater jet coordination (2025), educational robotics kits (2025), and tunable-stiffness actuators (2024). Article keywords predominantly fall in Robotics, Material Science, and Control Systems. Awards & Recognition ONR Young Investigator Award (2023) NSF CAREER Award (2019) Johnson & Johnson Women in STEM2D Scholars Award (2020) Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Award (2017) Research Teams & Advising Leads the GRASP Lab-affiliated Sung Robotics group. Current doctoral students include Zhiyuan Yang (jet propulsion), Daniel Feshbach (kinematic design), and Gabriel Unger (reconfigurable structures). Recent graduates include Yipeng Zhang (MSc, SALP robotics) and Christopher Kim (PhD, self-sensing actuators).
Ken Ono is the STEM Advisor to the Provost and the Marvin Rosenblum Professor of Mathematics at the University of Virginia. He also holds courtesy appointments as Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Professor of Data Science, and Professor of Statistics. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the Shannon Center for Advanced Studies and serves on the Institute for Advanced Study board of trustees and the National Security Agency Advisory Board. His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Mathematics from UCLA (1993) and a B.A. in Mathematics from the University of Chicago (1989). Throughout his distinguished career, Ono has held leadership roles including Vice President of the American Mathematical Society, Chair of the Mathematics Section of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and Chairman of the Department of Mathematics at UVa. Ken Ono specializes in Number Theory, Combinatorics, Algebra, and Arithmetic Geometry, with recent work expanding into sports analytics and swimming optimization. His research has produced numerous publications on partition theory, modular forms, and related areas, continuing the mathematical legacy of Srinivasa Ramanujan. His recent publications demonstrate a continued focus on partition theory, modular forms, and their connections to prime numbers and combinatorial structures. The work shows sophisticated connections between classical number theory and modern mathematical physics, with applications in cryptography and data science. Guggenheim Fellowship David and Lucile Packard Fellowship Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Fellowship NSF CAREER Award Presidential Early Career Award (2000) National Science Foundation Director's Distinguished Teaching Scholar (2005) University of Chicago Alumni Medal for Professional Achievement (2023) Fellow of the American Mathematical Society Ono has advised 34 PhD students and 17 postdocs, mentoring numerous award winners including 2 Breakthrough Mirzakhani Prize winners, 9 Morgan Prize winners, and 9 Schafer Prize winners. He founded and directs the Spirit of Ramanujan Global STEM Talent Search, which has awarded 125 budding scientists from 23 countries. His research grants have supported extensive REU programs, with continuous undergraduate research opportunities for 25 years. Beyond academia, Ono serves as a technical consultant for elite swimmers, has worked as an Associate Producer on the film The Man Who Knew Infinity , and is actively involved with the Infinity Arts Foundation. His interdisciplinary work spans from pure mathematics to practical applications in sports science, where he has developed data-driven approaches to optimize swimming performance and served as a consultant for Olympic medalists. He co-founded the Velocity Swim Camp with Olympic coach Todd DeSorbo, combining mathematical analytics with elite swimming training.
Pavel Coupek is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Michigan State University (MSU). He holds a PhD from Purdue University, where he was supervised by Tong Liu, and completed his Bachelor's and Master's studies in homological algebra at Charles University in Prague. His research focuses on p-adic Hodge theory, arithmetic geometry, and homological algebra, with applications to modular forms and rational points on algebraic curves. Education: PhD in Mathematics, Purdue University (Advisor: Tong Liu) MSc in Mathematics, Charles University, Prague BSc in Mathematics, Charles University, Prague Research Interests: p-adic Galois representations and p-adic Hodge theory Algebraic and arithmetic geometry Homological algebra and its interactions with algebraic geometry Modular and automorphic forms Quadratic Chabauty methods for rational points Professional Activities: Organized seminars on infinity categories and perfectoid spaces at Purdue University Co-authored research on prismatic cohomology, automorphic forms, and geometric Chabauty methods Teaching experience includes courses at MSU and Purdue, covering differential equations, calculus, and linear algebra
Yuichiro Hoshi is an Associate Professor at the Research Institute for Mathematical Sciences (RIMS) , Kyoto University. His research focuses on arithmetic geometry , particularly anabelian geometry and p-adic Teichmüller theory , with a special emphasis on fundamental groups of algebraic varieties related to hyperbolic curves. Education: M.Sc. in Mathematics, Kyoto University (2006) D.Sc. in Mathematics, Kyoto University (2009) Research Interests: Yuichiro Hoshi's work delves into the deep connections between arithmetic geometry and Galois theory , exploring Grothendieck's anabelian conjecture , section conjecture , and p-adic Teichmüller theory . His research aims to understand the structure of fundamental groups of hyperbolic curves and their applications to number theory and algebraic geometry. Recent Publications: Hoshi has published extensively in top-tier journals, with recent works focusing on anabelian geometry of configuration spaces , hyperbolic curvoids , and inter-universal Teichmüller theory . His collaborations include notable mathematicians such as Shinichi Mochizuki and Shota Tsujimura. Scientific Awards: 28th Inoue Research Award for Young Scientists (2012) 1st IUT Innovator Prize (2024) International Engagement: Hoshi has held visiting positions at institutions such as the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences (Cambridge University), Université de Paris 6 , and Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main . He actively organizes and participates in international conferences and seminars, contributing to the global advancement of anabelian geometry and related fields. Contact: Email: yuichiro@kurims.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Bianca Viray is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Washington. Her research focuses on arithmetic geometry, number theory, and algebraic geometry, particularly exploring rational points on varieties and Brauer-Manin obstructions. She actively organizes the UW Number Theory Seminar and collaborates on projects addressing the distribution of mathematical potential and inclusive education. Viray's work bridges theoretical advancements with pedagogical contributions, including workshops on effective mathematical communication and resources for academic success. Her research interests emphasize the intersection of arithmetic and algebraic geometry, with a focus on quadratic points, conic bundles, and the persistence of obstructions in rationality questions. She has contributed to foundational studies on Brauer groups, del Pezzo surfaces, and the arithmetic of curves, often involving collaborations on computational algebraic geometry tools like Magma and Sage. Viray's articles span topics like quartic del Pezzo surfaces, parameterized points on curves, and number fields generated by linear systems. She advocates for equitable mathematics education through initiatives rooted in Federico Ardila’s axioms, emphasizing dignity and accessibility in academic environments.
Elliot Hawkes is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). His research bridges design, mechanics, and non-traditional materials to develop robust, adaptable, human-safe robots for uncertain environments. He leads the Hawkes Lab, focusing on bio-inspired microstructured adhesives, nonlinear compliant mechanisms, soft actuators, exoskeletons, and growing robots. PhD from Stanford University, 2015 Postdoctoral Scholar at Stanford's CHARM Lab, 2015-2016 Assistant Professor at UCSB since 2016 Current projects include: Material-like robotic collectives with spatiotemporal control Variable friction shoe for locomotor therapy High-force soft actuators for industrial applications Vine-inspired robots for search and rescue Growing robots for biomedical and environmental use Recent publications in Science and Nature highlight breakthroughs in soft robotics and human-safe actuation. His team has received multiple NSF GRFP awards and a UCSB Regents Fellowship. The lab holds patents in adhesive gripping, soft actuation, and reconfigurable robotics.
Cameron Franc is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics & Statistics at McMaster University. He holds a Ph.D. from McGill University (2011) and a B.Sc. from Queen's University (2006). His research focuses on number theory, algebraic geometry, and vertex operator algebras, with a particular emphasis on modular forms and their applications. He has contributed to topics such as p-adic analysis, representation theory, and Fuchsian groups. Teaching responsibilities include advanced courses like Cryptography (MATH 3CY3), Algebra I (MATH 701), and Number Theory (MATH 3H03), reflecting his expertise in foundational and specialized mathematical areas. He has published extensively in journals such as Communications in Algebra, Mathematika, and Canadian Journal of Mathematics. His work bridges pure mathematics with interdisciplinary applications, including studies in automorphic forms and geometric structures. Research highlights include exploring unbounded denominators conjectures, p-adic vertex algebras, and vector-valued modular forms. Despite no explicit awards listed, his contributions to modular form theory and algebraic structures demonstrate significant scholarly impact.
Eyal Z. Goren is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at McGill University. His research focuses on arithmetic geometry, including studies of Shimura varieties, modular forms, complex multiplication, expander graphs, arithmetic dynamics, and mathematical cryptography. He is affiliated with the Centre Interuniversitaire en Calcul Mathématique Algébrique (CICMA), a Montreal-based group in number theory. Goren’s work bridges pure mathematics and applications in cryptography, with notable contributions to the theory of supersingular elliptic curves and cryptographic hash functions derived from expander graphs. Education : PhD in Mathematics from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (1996), advised by Ehud De Shalit. Teaching : Teaches advanced courses such as Higher Algebra I/II, Algebra 1/2/3/4, Number Theory, and specialized topics like Unlikely Intersections. Affiliations : Active member of CICMA and the CRM (Centre de Recherches Mathématiques), collaborating on seminars and research initiatives. Research Interests : Goren’s work emphasizes the interplay between number theory and geometry, with recent focus on p-adic dynamics, canonical subgroups, and Faltings heights. His studies on Picard modular forms and Shimura varieties explore geometric structures in positive characteristic and their arithmetic implications. Publications : Over 40 articles in leading journals, including Inventiones Mathematicae , Compositio Mathematica , and Journal für die reine und angewandte Mathematik . His book Lectures on Hilbert Modular Varieties and Modular Forms is a key resource in the field. Grants and Collaboration : Engaged in collaborative projects on expander graphs, post-quantum cryptography, and the geometry of abelian varieties with complex multiplication. His research is supported by grants from the NSERC and other agencies.
Professor Neil Strickland is a faculty member at the University of Sheffield's School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, holding the rank of Professor. He earned his PhD from the University of Manchester in 1992 and held positions as a C.L.E. Moore Instructor at MIT and a Research Fellow at Trinity College Cambridge before joining Sheffield in 1998. He received the prestigious Whitehead Prize from the London Mathematical Society in 2005. His research focuses on stable homotopy theory, exploring connections between topology, algebraic geometry, and category theory. Key areas include formal group laws, chromatic homotopy theory, and equivariant cohomology. Prof. Strickland emphasizes translating topological problems into algebraic frameworks, leveraging category theory for structural insights. Grants: He has led EPSRC-funded projects, including 'Symmetric Powers of Spheres' and 'Equivariant Elliptic Cohomology and Class Field Theory,' and collaborated on grants like 'Higher Structures on Elliptic Cohomology.' Teaching: Prof. Strickland instructs courses such as MAS334 Combinatorics and MAS435 Algebraic Topology. His homepage provides further academic resources and materials. Awards: His recognition includes the Whitehead Prize, reflecting contributions to algebraic topology and homotopy theory.
Prof. Dr. Marc Nieper-Wißkirchen is a University Professor (W3) for Algebra and Number Theory at the Institute of Mathematics, University of Augsburg, since 2008. He has held visiting positions at the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in Bonn and the University of Cambridge, and served as a Junior Professor at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (2004–2008). Since October 2021, he has been Vice Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology (MNTF). Education: Diploma in Mathematics (2000) from the University of Cologne, preceded by preliminary diplomas in physics (1997) and mathematics (1997). His doctoral studies (2000–2002) under Prof. Daniel Huybrechts focused on characteristic classes and Rozansky-Witten invariants of hyperkähler manifolds. His research spans algebraic geometry, differential geometry, and mathematical physics, with a focus on hyperkähler manifolds, Hilbert schemes of points, irregular singular connections, and Stokes phenomena. He has contributed to the understanding of Rozansky-Witten invariants, Chern numbers, and topological aspects of differential equations. Recent publications include works on Betti structures of hypergeometric equations (2022) and Stokes matrices for confluent hypergeometric equations (2022), reflecting his ongoing exploration of differential equations' geometric underpinnings. Earlier works address Hochschild homology, equivariant cohomology, and operads in algebraic contexts. His computational contributions include software demonstrations for elliptic curve arithmetic, Collatz sequences, and Google Matrix simulations. Technical expertise includes programming languages (TeX, PHP, HTML) and systems (Unix/Linux, Zope/Plone).
Asif Zaman is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto. His research focuses on Analytic Number Theory , Probabilistic Number Theory , and Arithmetic Statistics , with applications to Algebraic Structures , L-functions , and Modular Surfaces . He has contributed to problems involving the distribution of prime numbers, zeros of L-functions, and mass equidistribution. Research highlights include work on the Chebotarev Density Theorem , Random Multiplicative Functions , and Binary Quadratic Forms . His recent publications address advanced topics such as Artin L-functions , GL(n) Sieve Methods , and Multiplicative Chaos in number theory. Zaman has co-authored articles with prominent researchers like James Thorner and Robert J. Lemke Oliver, focusing on non-vanishing properties, explicit density estimates, and Siegel zeros. Zaman teaches mathematics courses at the University of Toronto, including MAT237 Multivariable Calculus with Proofs and MAT198 Cryptology . His teaching philosophy emphasizes active learning, collaboration, and analytical skill development, inspired by resources like Mathematical Mindsets and the American Mathematical Society blog series.
Anton Mellit is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Vienna. He holds a Doctor of Natural Sciences from the University of Bonn (2008) and completed postdoctoral positions at institutions including the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics (Bonn), Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (Trieste), and the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (Klosterneuburg). His research focuses on algebraic geometry, enumerative geometry, and their connections to representation theory, combinatorics, and number theory, with particular emphasis on moduli spaces, categorification, and character varieties. Education: Doctor of Natural Sciences (2008), University of Bonn Master in Applied Mathematics (2004), National Technical University of Ukraine Bachelor in Applied Mathematics (2002), National Technical University of Ukraine Research Interests: Investigates Poincaré polynomials of moduli spaces, Higgs bundles, and character varieties Studies Khovanov-Rozansky homology and torus knots Explores connections between Macdonald polynomials and affine Springer fibers Develops combinatorial approaches to algebraic geometry via Hilbert schemes and categorification Grants & Projects: ERC Consolidator Grant: Macdonald polynomials and related structures in geometry FWF Standalone Project: Refined invariants in combinatorics, low-dimensional topology, and geometry of moduli spaces Labs/Teams: Collaborates with researchers in geometric representation theory, quantum cohomology, and algebraic combinatorics, including notable co-authors like Erik Carlsson, Eugene Gorsky, and Maxim Smirnov.
Noriko Yui is a Professor of Mathematics at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario. She holds academic affiliations within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics under the Faculty of Arts and Science. Her research bridges number theory, algebraic geometry, and mathematical physics, with a focus on arithmetic geometry and mirror symmetry, particularly in the modularity of Calabi-Yau threefolds. Yui earned her B.S. from Tsuda College (1966) and her Ph.D. in Mathematics from Rutgers University (1974), supervised by Richard Bumby. She has held visiting roles at the Max-Planck-Institute in Bonn and Newnham College, University of Cambridge. Her work includes collaborations with Fernando Q. Gouvêa, notably proving the modularity of rigid Calabi-Yau threefolds over Q. Her research areas span arithmetic geometry, number theory, algebraic/differential geometry, and particle physics theory. Key contributions include studies on L-functions, mirror symmetry, and the applications of Calabi-Yau manifolds in physics. Since 2007, she has served as managing editor of the journal Communications in Number Theory and Physics . Yui co-authored influential works such as Generic Polynomials: Constructive Aspects of the Inverse Galois Problem and edited volumes like Mirror Symmetry V . Her research emphasizes interdisciplinary connections between mathematics and theoretical physics, particularly in string theory contexts.
Yunfeng Jiang is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Kansas, affiliated with the Department of Mathematics in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on algebraic geometry, with a particular emphasis on moduli spaces of stable maps, sheaves, and their enumerative invariants such as Gromov-Witten and Donaldson-Thomas invariants. His work intersects theoretical physics, including string theory and gauge theory, exploring connections between algebraic structures and physical theories. Recent research has addressed smoothing of surface singularities, equivariant geometry, and the interplay between birational geometry and enumerative invariants. He has contributed to the study of moduli spaces of general type surfaces, Vafa-Witten invariants, and S-duality conjectures on K3 surfaces. His work often involves advanced techniques like virtual fundamental classes and obstruction theories. Jiang has taught extensively at KU, including courses on linear algebra, calculus, algebraic topology, and specialized topics in algebraic geometry. His research is supported by the NSF (DMS-2401484) and has been disseminated through over 50 peer-reviewed publications in top journals like *Mathematische Annalen*, *Advances in Mathematics*, and *Pure and Applied Mathematics Quarterly*. His research trends emphasize geometric structures in higher dimensions, moduli problems, and applications to physics, with notable contributions to the quantum cohomology of moduli spaces and the study of root stacks in algebraic geometry.
