Launched in March 2019 (and named “Living Proof” in February 2021), the INI podcast series aims to highlight the diverse people and explore the many interconnected topics linked to the Institute’s activities. Interviewees range from visiting academics and lecturers to mathematicians, other scientists, musicians, artists, students, and prominent figures within the University of Cambridge and beyond. The podcast typically involves mathematical themes, but is specifically aimed at a general audience. The focus is on the subjects being interviewed and the social stories they have to tell, not just on the significance and details of the research they may be undertaking. We hope there is interest and inspiration here for everyone.
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Dr Bubacarr Bah of the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences details his role within AIMS and talks us through the important work the Institute does in providing opportunities and teaching to talented mathematicians from across the African continent
Professor Svitlana Mayboroda, a Kirk Distinguished Visiting Fellow, speaks about her specialism in harmonic analysis, a love of mathematics for its own sake and the research aims that she and her collaborators are working towards during their time at INI
Programme organiser Professor Xian Chen shares her thoughts on interactions between the fields of mathematics and mechanics, potential outcomes of such activity and the popularity of interdisciplinary events in general
Kirk Distinguished Visiting Fellow Professor Irene Fonseca discusses the power of academic interactions, the obligations placed upon high-achieving female mathematicians, a love of painting and being knighted by the “Military Order of St James of the Sword”
Professor Martin Buhmann speak about the Giessen-based Mathematikum centre (of which his is co-Director) and suggests how a more “physical” approach can help capture the imagination of the young and old alike, and make learning “fun”.
Dr Frank Kingn talks about his recent book “Sundials: Cutting Time”, the challenges and mathematics involved in designing such classical timepieces, and whether a young Sir Isaac Newton was himself the creator of a sundial.
Henri Elad Altman explains the day-to-day realities of participating in an INI programme, what life is like in Cambridge for a visiting researcher and whether it is “intimidating” to work alongside senior colleagues for weeks at a time
Susanne Hilger tells the podcast about life as a junior Participant in an INI programme