Other Past Events

Kinetic theory offers an effective approach to reduce the complexity of particle systems by evolving probability density functions instead of tracking individual particles. This reduction in dimensionality significantly simplifies the problem, enabling efficient analysis and computation. Optimal transport, on the other hand, provides a natural geometric framework for understanding gradient flows, diffusive partial differential equations, and diffusion processes.

The connection between these fields dates back to McKean's work in the 1960s, where he establishes an explicit convergence rate for Kac's caricature, a one-dimensional toy model for the Boltzmann equation. Moreover, optimal transport has played a crucial role in establishing the rigorous theory of mean field limits, bridging the gap between particle systems and mean field kinetic equations. Furthermore, it has emerged as a vital numerical analysis tool for studying particle methods. The remarkable contributions of Cédric Villani in both fields has earned him the Fields Medal in 2010. Recent advancements have deepened the connection between the two fields, opening up exciting new research directions. These include the exploration of sampling techniques, solving inverse problems, quantifying uncertainty, and building mathematical foundations for deep learning. 

This workshop aims to foster collaboration and facilitate fruitful discussions among researchers from both backgrounds, with a focus on exploring the interdisciplinary nature of these subjects. 

Emmy Noether (1882-1935) was one of the most influential mathematicians of the last century. Her works and teachings left a lasting mark on modern algebra, opening new avenues for a new structural perspective in mathematics. Noether was also one of the first women to gain the right to teach at a German university. She acquired that certification (Habilitation) on June 4, 1919, after submitting a thesis in which she solved one of the central problems in Einstein’s general theory of relativity. Her two celebrated theorems relating symmetries of variational problems and conservation laws of the field equations form the cornerstone of modern physical theories and beyond.

To celebrate the centenary of this event and the career of a unique personality in the history of mathematics, the ensemble Portrait Theater Vienna has produced a biographical play, Diving into Math with Emmy Noether. The production is directed by Sandra Schüddekopf and stars Anita Zieher as Emmy. The play is based on historical documents and events, and was written in cooperation with the historians Mechthild Koreuber and David E. Rowe. Further information can be found on the play’s website.

The University of Minnesota is pleased to announce that an English-language version of the play will be performed on Sep 26, 2023 at 7 p.m. in Coffman Memorial Union Theater. Associated events are being planned to showcase the mathematical, scientific, and philosophical impact of Emmy Noether’s legacy.

The Symposium on Fronts, Patterns, and Self-Organization will feature three 40-minute invited presentations on complex systems in the sciences and engineering, where fronts and patterns play an important role in the self-organized properties of the system. The talks will emphasize open questions and leave ample room for discussion. The symposium will also include several shorter contributed presentations. 

Register for the Event

The School of Mathematics Orientation is mandatory for all incoming Mathematics graduate students. During our orientation you will find out about curriculum requirements, preliminary exams, and opportunities in research, teaching, and service.  You will also participate in practice teaching sessions, and your responsibilities as a graduate assistant will be explained. Please make an appointment with your faculty advisor and the director of graduate studies (mcgehee@umn.edu) to make registration plans.

An International Conference Honoring Mitchell Luskin on the Occasion of his 65th Birthday

Multiscale modeling, theory, and computation have made fundamental contributions to many areas of physical, chemical, and biological sciences. Recent theoretical and experimental advances present new challenges for multiscale theory and computation. This conference will seek to stimulate new approaches and collaborations by bringing together both senior and junior researchers with expertise spanning molecular to continuum scales and stochastic to deterministic methods.

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