Scientist and creator of Mathematica to lecture at Vassar, October 1

Stephen Wolfram, author of the best selling book, "A New Kind of Science," will present a Matthew Vassar lecture at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 1, in the Villard Room, Vassar College, Main Building.

Wolfram's lecture, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Office of the Dean of the Faculty, and co-sponsored by the departments of mathematics, computer sciences, and physics and astronomy. Prior to the lecture and a question and answer session, there will be a reception at 4:30 p.m. in the Rose Parlor, Main Building.

Wolfram founded Wolfram Research, Inc. in 1986 and began the creation of Mathematica, the world's leading software system for technical computing and symbolic programming. He remains president and CEO, dividing him time between leadership of his company and pursuit of basic science. The company has devoted nearly 20 years to developing a new approach to science called "complex system research." His presentation will cover some of the key ideas and discoveries described for the first time in his book, outline their implications, and illustrate their personal and historical context.

Wolfram has used his studies to tackle a wide variety of fundamental, scientific queries, ranging from the development of complex biology, to the ultimate scope and limitations of mathematics, to the character of intelligence in the universe. His book, an instant best seller, is already showing signs of initiating a major paradigm shift in science.

Wolfram was educated at Eton and Oxford before receiving his Ph.D. from Caltech in theoretical physics in 1979 at the age of 20. During the early 1980s Wolfram made a series of now-classic discoveries about computer systems known as cellular automata, leading to numerous applications in many scientific fields. In 1981, a MacArthur Prize Fellowship recognized his early work in physics and computer science.

For additional information, please call the Office of Campus Activities at (845) 437-5370. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact Cathy Jennings at (845) 437-5370, as far in advance as possible to request appropriate and reasonable accommodations.

Vassar College is a highly selective, coeducational, independent, residential liberal arts college founded in 1861.

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations or information on accessibility should contact Campus Activities Office at (845) 437-5370. Without sufficient notice, appropriate space and/or assistance may not be available.

Vassar College is a highly selective, coeducational, independent, residential liberal arts college founded in 1861.

This article was posted on Tuesday, October 1st, 2002.