A doctorate in mathematics secured in 1979 marked the commencement of a scholarly career that eventually pivoted from pure calculation to the critical study of climate policy. Amy Dahan has navigated the intersection of applied mathematics and the history of science, contributing significantly to institutional understanding of how mathematical modeling informs international political decision-making processes.
Academic Foundation and Early Teaching
Dahan pursued her higher education at Nantes University and Paris North University. Following her initial doctorate in 1979, she served as an educator at the University of Amiens until 1983. During this period, she established a professional rhythm that balanced pedagogical duties with the rigorous research standards expected at the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS).
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The scope of her academic influence expanded through several key appointments across Europe. Dahan held positions at the École polytechnique from 1988 to 2002 and contributed to the academic programs at the School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences starting in 1998. Additionally, she shared her expertise at the Université libre de Bruxelles and the University of Picardie Jules Verne, eventually rising to the rank of Director of Research at the CNRS.
Historical and Mathematical Scholarship
In 1990, Dahan completed a second doctorate focused specifically on the history of mathematics. Her written output is extensive, ranging from the co-authored 'History of Mathematics: Highways and Byways' to specialized monographs on Augustin-Louis Cauchy. As an emeritus member of the Alexandre Koyré Center for Research in the History of Science and Technology, she has focused on the evolution of scientific thought and institutional histories, such as her work on the bicentennial history of the École polytechnique.
Climate Change and Political Modeling
Dahan transitioned her analytical focus toward the complexities of climate science and policy. Her research examines how mathematical models shape international negotiations, a subject explored in 'Gouverner le climat ? 20 ans de négociations internationales' co-authored with Stefan C. Aykut. These works investigate the scientific and political stakes involved in using economic scenarios to forecast future environmental trajectories.
Fast facts
- Born: 2000
- Citizenship: France
- Primary Occupation: Director of Research at CNRS
- Education: Paris North University, Nantes University
- Specialization: History of Science
- Languages: French, English
Questions readers ask
What is Amy Dahan's primary area of research?
She is a mathematician and historian of science, specializing in the history of mathematics and the politics of climate change.
With which institutions has she been affiliated?
She has worked with the CNRS, École polytechnique, School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences, and the University of Picardie Jules Verne.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Picardie Jules Verne, École polytechnique and School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences
- Fields: history of science
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