VIGRE
Administration
(restricted access)
Vertical Integration of Research and Education in Mathematics
In September 1998 the Columbia Mathematics Department was awarded a National Science Foundation Grant for Vertical Integration of Research and Education (VIGRE). The starting date of the grant was July 1, 1999. The grant is for three years, and is renewable for an additional two years.
The main goal of this grant is to offer mathematical training that is better aligned with contemporary scientific needs and job opportunities for mathematicians, at all levels: undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate. These require a more cohesive teaching of traditional branches of mathematics, with an exposure at an early stage to other scientific disciplines and to non-academic environments.
The grant focuses on three areas in which the Columbia Mathematics Department has particular strength:
- core mathematics;
- the mathematics of theoretical physics;
- probability, with an emphasis on the mathematics of finance.
- restructured curriculum and research activities reflecting cutting edge developments in the subject;
- joint postdoctoral-Ritt Assistant Professor positions structured to provide better support for young mathematicians beginning their careers as teachers and researchers;
- improved funding for graduate students;
- improved research activities and funding for mathematics undergraduates;
- seminars and other activities designed to increase the amount of interaction between undergraduates, graduate students and faculty;
- enhanced emphasis on pedagogical issues in mathematics, possibly through collaboration with the Program in Mathematics Education at Teacher's College;