Born in Poland in 1937, Irwin Kra is a mathematician whose academic career in the United States contributed to the fields of complex analysis, Riemann surfaces, and the study of Kleinian groups. He built his body of work through research positions at major universities and leadership roles in mathematics administration, while publishing extensive literature on function theory.
Academic Background
Kra began his formal mathematical education at the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, completing his bachelor's degree in 1960. He continued his studies at Columbia University, where he earned his doctorate in 1966 under the supervision of Lipman Bers. His doctoral research focused on the conformal and algebraic structure of mathematical systems, setting the foundation for his later work in the field.
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Following his doctoral studies, Kra served as a C.L.E. Moore instructor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology from 1966 to 1968. He subsequently moved to Stony Brook University, where he held a long-term academic appointment. During his tenure, he chaired the Faculty of Mathematics from 1975 to 1981 and served as the Dean of the Division of Physical Sciences and Mathematics between 1991 and 1996. He achieved Professor Emeritus status in 2004 and taught at Northwestern University in 2010.
Mathematical Contributions
Kra's research explores Riemann surfaces, moduli spaces, and Teichmüller spaces. His investigations often focus on the connection between these areas and Kleinian groups, as well as the application of automorphic forms to number theory. He has collaborated extensively throughout his career, working with researchers including Hershel M. Farkas, Bernard Maskit, and Jane P. Gilman. His written output includes influential textbooks such as 'Riemann Surfaces' and 'Complex Analysis in the spirit of Lipman Bers'.
Professional Service
Beyond his research and teaching, Kra has participated in professional mathematical organizations. He is a member of the American Mathematical Society and became a fellow of the organization in 2012. He was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship for the 1972-1973 period. Between 2004 and 2008, he served as the Director of Math for America, a private organization focused on improving mathematics education at the college level.
Fast facts
- Born: 1937, Poland
- Citizenship: United States
- Doctoral advisor: Lipman Bers
- Notable roles: Dean at Stony Brook University
- Professional membership: American Mathematical Society
- Major field: Complex analysis
- Award: Guggenheim Fellowship (1972-1973)
Questions readers ask
What is Irwin Kra's primary field of study?
He specializes in complex analysis, with a focus on Riemann surfaces, moduli spaces, and Kleinian groups.
Where did Irwin Kra hold academic positions?
He taught at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stony Brook University, and Northwestern University.
Achievements
- Held posts at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stony Brook University
- Fields: mathematics, function theory and complex analysis
