Mathematicians pay tribute to former Professor

Mathematicians at the University of St Andrews hosted a special lecture recently in memory of a former professor.

The School of Mathematics and Statistics hosted the Curle Lecture 2006, dedicated to the memory of Professor Samuel Newby Curle, who was appointed Gregory Chair of Applied Mathematics in 1967 and died in 1989.

The biennial public event featured an entertaining and musical lecture by renowned speaker and educator Dr David Acheson, from Jesus College Oxford. A large audience enjoyed the lecture entitled “1089 and All That”, the title of one of Dr Acheson’s popular science books.

Head of School Professor Alan Hood said: “The lecture was highly entertaining, featuring experimental demonstrations, music (a live performance by the speaker) and movies. Complex mathematical concepts, among other things, were beautifully described in lay terms to a general audience. Some aspects of wave motion were even explained and demonstrated with an electric guitar.”

A reception was held afterwards, during which staff and students were given the opportunity to meet the speaker.

ENDS

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Ref: Curle Lecture 231006.doc

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