News
What: The Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Portland State presents the inaugural Fariborz Maseeh Lecture in Mathematical Sciences, “Mathematics and Computers: Recent Successes and Insurmountable Challenges,” with world-famous mathematician Ronald Graham. The computer has had a dramatic impact on what mathematicians do and on how they do it. However, there is increasing evidence that many apparently simple problems may in fact be forever beyond any conceivable computer approach. Graham will describe a variety of mathematical problems in which computers have had, may have or will probably never have a significant role in their solutions. The event is sponsored by The Massiah Foundation.
When: Wednesday, May 17, 2006, 7 p.m.
Where: Portland State Lincoln Hall, rm. 77 (1620 SW Park).
Cost: The lecture is free and open to the public.
Contact: For more information, contact Patricia Haugen at 503-725-5039 or haugenp@pdx.edu.
Background: Ronald Graham is one of the world's best-known mathematicians, computer theorists, and technology visionaries. He currently holds the Irwin and Joan Jacobs Professorship of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of California San Diego and is chief scientist at California Institute for Telecommunication and Information Technology (Calit2), a university/industry research partnership created to drive innovation. In 2003 Graham received the Steele Prize for Lifetime Achievement from the American Mathematical Society. Graham is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for using the highest number ever used in a mathematical proof, a bounding value published in 1977 known as “Graham's Number.” A master juggler, Graham has also served as president of the International Juggler’s Association and has appeared on stage with Cirque du Soleil. While in Portland, Graham will also participate in several student and faculty seminars and a luncheon with local technology industry leaders. Please visit www.calit2.net/about/index.php for more information on Ronald Graham and Calit2.
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