Inspiring young minds through math
As part of this year’s Global Young Scientists Summit (GYSS)@one-north, NUS hosted a panel discussion with three lauded scientists — Nobel Laureate Professor David Gross, Fields Medallist Prof Stephen Smale, and Turing Award winner Prof Andrew Yao. The session, titled “Learning to read the universe: advancing scientific understanding through mathematics”, was moderated by NUS Deputy President (Research and Technology) Prof Ho Teck Hua, and attended by some 300 students.
Prof Gross, a particle physicist and string theorist, won the 2004 Nobel Prize in Physics for his discovery in quantum field theory of nuclear matter; Prof Smale, a well-known mathematician, was awarded the Fields Medal in 1966 for his work on topology in higher dimensions; and computer scientist Prof Yao received the Turing Award in 2000 for his contributions to computation theory.
The scientists shared interesting personal anecdotes of their research journeys. They also debated on what constitutes science and highlighted the application of mathematics across a wide spectrum of fields -– from space exploration and social studies, to biology and economics.
During the question-and-answer session, students sought the views of the three luminaries on whether mathematics is real or a human invention, examples of interesting mathematical applications, and tips on mastering math.
A steady stream of students took the rare opportunity to seek the views of the distinguished panel during the question-and-answer session
Another panel session titled “The PhD Degree: Commodity or Commonplace?” held on the same day, was chaired by NUS President Professor Tan Chorh Chuan. The panel featured Nobel Laureates Professor Serge Haroche (Physics, 2012), Professor Harald zur Hausen (Physiology or Medicine, 2005), Professor Arieh Warshel (Chemistry, 2013), Professor Ei-ichi Negishi (Chemistry, 2010) and Professor John Robin Warren (Physiology or Medicine, 2008).
The panellists said that possessing the right training and attitude will help PhD students in their scientific careers despite a competitive job market.
Held from 17 to 22 January 2016, the GYSS, organised by the National Research Foundation, is an international gathering of bright young researchers from around the world. They meet together for a week to network and share ideas, while tapping on the knowledge and wisdom of eminent science and technology leaders.
