The SASTRA Ramanujan Prize was awarded to Roman Holowinsky in 2011 for proving a significant case of the quantum unique ergodicity conjecture. This recognition highlighted his role in advancing number theory, specifically through his research into modular forms. He continues his academic career as an associate professor with tenure in the United States, maintaining a focus on rigorous mathematical contributions.
Academic Foundations and Early Research
Born in 1979, Holowinsky began his formal training at Rutgers University. He completed a Bachelor of Science degree at the institution in 2001 before continuing his graduate work. In 2006, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy under the supervision of Henryk Iwaniec. This period of study established his specialization in number theory, setting the stage for his subsequent professional focus on the properties of modular forms.
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Holowinsky joined the faculty at Ohio State University, where he currently serves as an associate professor. His collaboration with Kannan Soundararajan provided the breakthrough on the quantum unique ergodicity conjecture that earned him the SASTRA Ramanujan Prize. The same year, his research achievements were further acknowledged when he was granted a Sloan Fellowship.
The Erdős Institute
In 2017, Holowinsky expanded his professional activities beyond traditional research and teaching by founding the Erdős Institute. The organization operates as a multi-university collaboration designed to bridge the gap between academic mathematics and private industry. Its primary mission is to assist graduate students, postdocs, and graduate alumni in identifying and securing employment opportunities outside of traditional academic career paths.
Fast facts
- Born: 1979
- Nationality: United States
- Field: Number theory
- Alma mater: Rutgers University
- PhD advisor: Henryk Iwaniec
- Notable award: SASTRA Ramanujan Prize
- Academic role: Associate professor, Ohio State University
- Founder: Erdős Institute
Questions readers ask
What is Holowinsky's primary field of study?
He specializes in number theory, with specific attention to the theory of modular forms.
What is the function of the Erdős Institute?
Founded in 2017 by Holowinsky, it is a multi-university collaboration that helps mathematics graduates and postdocs transition into careers within private industry.
Achievements
- SASTRA Ramanujan Prize
- Held posts at Ohio State University
- Fields: number theory

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