The upcoming Winston Ko Professorship in Science Leadership Lecture will explore the work of a medieval Italian mathematician and its lasting impacts on number theory. Kenneth A. Ribet, a professor emeritus of mathematics at UC Berkeley, will present “Fibonacci, congruent numbers and elliptic curves” on Thursday, May 16 at 6 p.m. at Putah Creek Lodge. The event is free.

In mathematics, the ability to use objects like numbers and other abstract objects to solve problems seems to come with strings attached. New research argues that Plato, the ancient Greek philosopher born over 2,400 years ago, shows a better way to think about what’s real in mathematics.

A mathematician working in the life sciences and an astrophysicist studying dark matter from the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis are among the recent cohort awarded Chancellor’s Fellowships for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The fellowships recognize exceptional contributions in supporting, tutoring, mentoring and advising underrepresented students and/or students from underserved communities.