How many minds dedicated to unraveling the universe’s deepest mysteries dwell within these walls? Here at Tsinghua University, we find the Yau Mathematical Sciences Center. It is more than just a building. It is a hub of mathematical brilliance.
The Yau Mathematical Sciences Center is named after Shing-Tung Yau. He is an eminent mathematician of Chinese descent. Yau is among the top scholars who came to China. He came to teach and conduct academic research.
Born in 1949 in Guangdong Province, Yau’s path to mathematics began early. At 15, he found inspiration in an article. It was titled “Forty Years of Studying Calculus” by Professor Shiing-Shen Chern. He later studied under Chern.
Yau tackled the Calabi conjecture. This helped him pioneer “geometric analysis.” At 33, Yau received the Fields Medal. It is often called “the Nobel Prize of Mathematics.” He was the first Chinese recipient.
In 1979, Yau visited China during its reform and opening up. He reminisced about wanting to connect with the land of his forefathers. Since then, he frequently traveled between the United States and China.
In 2009, Tsinghua University invited Yau to establish the Mathematical Sciences Center. He became its director. In 2020, Tsinghua started a mathematics program named after Yau. In 2021, Qiuzhen College was founded. Yau serves as its dean. The college’s motto is “pursuing the truth and beauty of mathematics.”
Yau emphasizes the importance of intrinsic knowledge over awards. He respects those dedicated to pursuing knowledge. In April 2022, Yau became a full-time faculty member at Tsinghua University. He also holds positions at the Beijing Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Applications.
Despite a busy schedule, Yau swims every morning. He also participates in weekly seminars with his students. He donates funds to mathematical research institutions across China. He also donated his Shaw Prize money to Tsinghua University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Qiuzhen College promotes communication between Chinese and U.S. teenagers. By the end of 2023, it had invited 18 students from renowned U.S. universities. This was aimed at enhancing U.S. students’ understanding of China’s history, culture, and technological advancements.
Yau experienced the influence of traditional Chinese culture. He enjoys exploring ancient classics and modern fiction. He believes cultural cultivation benefits scientific research. He visits historical cities with students. They explore Chinese history and civilization.
Yau says that culture is meaningful only when it is inherited. The Yau Mathematical Sciences Center stands as a testament to his dedication. It fosters future generations of mathematicians. It is a place where the pursuit of knowledge knows no bounds.