Jeffrey Schenker, professor of mathematics in Michigan State University’s College of Natural Science, was named a fellow of the American Mathematical Society for 2020 for his research into mathematical physics and disorder effects in quantum systems and broader impacts of random motion.
Established in 1888, the American Mathematical Society is dedicated to advancing research and connecting the diverse global mathematical community through publications, conferences, professional services and advocacy programs. The fellows of the program are members who have made outstanding contributions to the creation, exposition, advancement, communication and utilization of mathematics.
Schenker is one of just 52 mathematical scientists from around the world recognized by his AMS peers.
“Looking at the list of other fellows and considering their accomplishments, I am humbled,” Schenker said. “It is a great honor to be considered a member of this group.”
Schenker’s research focuses on mathematical physics, centered on the mathematical study of quantum mechanics and statistical physics. As a field, mathematical physics aims to produce mathematical results that illustrate theory or prove theorems.
In recent years, Schenker has also worked with entomologists on the application of probabilistic models to problems in field biology.
“Work in my field comes down to asking questions, exploring ideas and always trying to learn how to see problems from a new perspective,” Schenker said. “The intellectual environment of the mathematics community and at MSU has really supported such research. I have had the chance to work with great students, postdoctoral researchers and colleagues at MSU and around the world.”
Keith Promislow, professor and chair of the MSU Department of Mathematics, says he is thrilled to see Schenker be made a fellow of the program. “He has established important results that quantify the impact of disorder on properties of quantum systems,” he said. “As quantum informatics and quantum computing become mainstream science, the impact of his work will only continue to grow.”
Schenker was honored at a private reception at the AMS Meeting on January 17 in Denver, Colorado. For a full list of this year’s cohort, their institutions and citations visit ams.org.