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2010/05/10

Toward a new breakthrough in mathematics

Professor Akimichi Takemura
(Department of Mathematical Informatics)

Professor Takemura is trying to make a new breakthrough in statistics using a method called “computational algebraic statistics.” Computational algebraic statistics is discrete (algebraic) mathematics rather than continuous (analytical) mathematics, and applies computational algebraic methods based on the theory of Grobner bases, one of the modern mathematics trends, to statistics. Although statistics is shifting from theory towards computation, and now goes in the direction of computing numerical solutions, this was only possible after the third breakthrough happened to Grobner bases. As a result, an innovative field called computational algebraic statistics emerged.

If pure mathematics centered on computational algebraic statistics and diverse advanced science and technology, including medicine, pharmaceutical science, biology, physics, and environment, converge further, the scope of applications will dramatically expand and challenges in areas such as finance and management will be solved, which will greatly contribute to the growth of industrial society. For this purpose, Professor Takemura initiated research with the participation of algebraists, computer scientists, and statisticians from ten universities/centers including Osaka University, The University of Tokyo, and Rikkyo University. This is JST CREST research “Harmony of Grobner bases and the Modern Industrial Society” (5 year project from October, 2008), which aims to disseminate “the fourth breakthrough” of Grobner bases from Japan and overcome international competition as a flagship of the project. This research group is made up of theory, computational, and application approaches to drive the development of the theory of Grobner bases and computational algebraic software by deepening interrelation among the three approaches.

Professor Takemura' s future vision is to found a research center with algebraists, computer scientists, and statisticians based on university-industry collaboration. It will give opportunities to foster young mathematicians interested in solving issues closely related to academics and society, and can be the Japanese version of DIMACS at Rutgers University in the US that delivered creative outcomes. This vision reflects Professor Takemura' s desire “to make mathematics more useful to society than ever.”


Graduate School of Information Science and Technology
the University of Tokyo