The research portfolio of Joachim von zur Gathen encompasses computational complexity, finite fields, cryptography, and computer algebra. Born in 1950 in Solingen, Germany, he has maintained a career bridging the disciplines of mathematics and computer science. His work focuses on areas that underpin modern digital security and symbolic computation, contributing to the institutional development of these fields through both research and editorial roles.
Academic Formation
Von zur Gathen completed his initial academic training in Switzerland. He earned his Diploma in Mathematik from ETH Zurich. He subsequently transitioned to the University of Zurich, where he completed his doctoral studies in 1980. His Ph.D. thesis, titled "Sekantenräume von Kurven," was completed under the supervision of the mathematician Volker Strassen.
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Following his doctoral graduation, von zur Gathen relocated to Canada in 1981 to join the Department of Computer Science at the University of Toronto. During his tenure there, he advanced to the position of Full Professor. In 1994, he returned to the German academic system, accepting a faculty position within the Department of Mathematics at the University of Paderborn. Since 2004, his primary academic affiliation has been at the University of Bonn, specifically within the B-IT and the Department of Computer Science.
Editorial and Professional Contributions
Beyond his teaching and research, von zur Gathen served as the founding editor-in-chief for the journal Computational Complexity, published by Birkhäuser, which is now part of Springer. His professional standing was recognized in 2010 when the B-IT hosted a symposium in honor of his 60th birthday. This event was accompanied by the publication of a dedicated festschrift within the Journal of Symbolic Computation.
Notable Publications
He is a co-author of the textbook "Modern Computer Algebra," written with Jürgen Gerhard. The third edition of this work was published by Cambridge University Press in April 2013. The text has achieved international reach through translations, including editions in Japanese and Chinese, reflecting the global application of computer algebra techniques in academic research.
Fast facts
- Born: 1950, Solingen, Germany
- Citizenship: Germany
- Doctoral Supervisor: Volker Strassen
- Ph.D. Thesis: Sekantenräume von Kurven (1980)
- Primary Fields: Mathematics and Computer Science
- Key Publication: Modern Computer Algebra (2013)
Questions readers ask
Which institutions have employed Joachim von zur Gathen?
He has held positions at the University of Toronto, the University of Paderborn, and the University of Bonn.
What is his connection to the journal Computational Complexity?
He is the founding editor-in-chief of the journal.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Toronto
- Fields: mathematics