UBC Mathematics Appoints New Head

Professor Michael Bennett, an expert in Number Theory and Diophantine problems, has been appointed head of the Department of Mathematics effective January 1, 2012.

Bennett received his PhD in mathematics from UBC in 1993, and after appointments at the University of Michigan, the Institute for Advanced Study at Princeton and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, rejoined UBC as an associate professor in 2001. 

"Mike’s UBC roots extend back several decades," says Simon Peacock, Dean of Science. "Since returning his service to the university has included teaching introductory to graduate-level courses, serving as acting department head, and sitting on the faculty’s senior appointments committee. I look forward to working with Mike over the next few years to advance mathematics at UBC."

Bennett is internationally recognized for his research, which focuses on using modern techniques to tackle classical Diophantine problems. He takes over leadership of the department from Rachel Kuske, who served as head for 4.5 years and was recently appointed Senior Advisor to the Provost on Women Faculty.

The Math Head Search Committee consisted of Alejandro Adem, Anne Condon, Dan Coombs, Kyle Hambrook, Mark MacLean, Connor Meehan, Malabika Pramanik and Lee Yupitun.