x
Breaking News
More () »

UT Austin professor is first woman to win 'Abel Prize,' mathematics' most prestigious award

Karen Uhlenbeck was honored for her research in fields like geometry and mathematical physics.

AUSTIN, Texas — Congratulations are in order to a University of Texas professor who's getting a prestigious international math award.

Karen Uhlenbeck is the first woman to win an Abel Prize. It's modeled after the Nobel Prize.

Uhlenbeck was honored for her research in fields like geometry and mathematical physics. Some of her most notable work focused on gauge theories, providing an analytical foundation for a number of concepts in physics, according to UT.

"For more than three decades at The University of Texas, Karen Uhlenbeck conducted research that revolutionized geometric analysis and mathematics as a whole," said President Gregory L. Fenves. "She was an inspiring teacher and dedicated mentor to thousands of UT students, motivating them to reach great heights in their academic and professional lives. The Abel Prize is the highest honor in mathematics, and it is one that Professor Uhlenbeck richly deserves."

RELATED: 

UT professor wins MacArthur Foundation Fellowship for work on 'Cancer Pen'

UT Austin Longhorn wins Nobel Prize for work fighting cancer

Aspiring mechanical engineers at UT Austin creating robots for the present and future

Back in 1983, Uhlenbeck received a MacArthur Fellowship, which is sometimes referred to as a "genius award."

The Abel Prize also comes with a hefty $700,000 check as well.

Before You Leave, Check This Out