Kyoto Univ. Professor Becomes 1st Japanese to Win Abel Prize in Math

Masaki Kashiwara, professor emeritus at Kyoto University’s Research Institute for Mathematical Sciences, has made history as the first Japanese recipient of the prestigious Abel Prize. Often referred to as the ‘Nobel Prize for mathematics,’ the award recognizes his groundbreaking contributions to algebraic analysis and representation theory.

Groundbreaking Achievements

Kashiwara, 78, was honored for his fundamental contributions to the field, including the development of the theory of D-modules and the proof of the Riemann-Hilbert correspondence. These achievements have become foundational tools in modern mathematics.

Career Highlights

Born in Ibaraki Prefecture, Kashiwara earned his master’s degree from the University of Tokyo and a Ph.D. from Kyoto University. Under the mentorship of Mikio Sato, he developed theories that have influenced various branches of mathematics. His work on crystal basis theory and representation theory has been particularly impactful.

Recognition and Ceremony

The Abel Prize, established in 2002, will be awarded to Kashiwara in a ceremony in Norway on May 20. He will receive prize money of 7.5 million Norwegian krone ($714,000). This recognition adds to his numerous accolades, including the Chern Medal and the Frontiers of Science Award.

Conclusion

Kashiwara’s achievements not only highlight the global impact of Japanese mathematicians but also inspire future generations to pursue excellence in the field. His work exemplifies the power of dedication and innovation in advancing human knowledge.