2001  Guest Lecture  Series

Tuesday, July 3, 2001, 4:30 p.m., Funger 320
Speaker:  Professor Sara Faridi, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
Title:  A survey of algebraic curves

Abstract: We will give examples of algebraic curves and describe several properties of them. We will also describe some applications of algebraic curves in fields related to mathematics.

Thursday, July 12, 2001, 4:30 p.m., Funger 320
Speaker:  Professor Jane Hawkins, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
Title:  Ergodic theory: what is it?

Abstract: We give an overview of the subject of ergodic theory from its inception. A crash course in measures will be included. The focus will be on interesting examples and the usefulness of this point of view in studying dynamical systems.

Tuesday, July 17, 2001, 4:30 p.m., Funger 320
Speaker:  Dr. James R. Schatz, National Security Agency, Fort George G. Mead, MD
Title:  Introduction to Cryptography

Thursday, July 19, 2001, 4:30 p.m., Funger 320
Speaker:  Professor Natalie Priebe, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY
Title:  An introduction to self-similar tilings

Abstract:  In this talk we will introduce the notion of a tiling of Euclidean space and explain how self-similar tilings are constructed. Simple examples in two dimensions will be shown, and some of the methods of mathematical analysis of the tilings will be discussed.

Thursday, July 26, 2001, 4:30 p.m., Funger 320
Speaker:  Professor Elaine McDonald, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA
Title:  A brief introduction to Queuing Theory

Abstract: Queuing Theory is a powerful way of modeling with probability. We will take a look at some real-world "networks" as simple as a queue at a bank to a convoluted assembly line at a semi-conductor factory. Can we predict how long we have to wait in line? What criteria determine whether there will likely be a bottleneck in the system?

Tuesday, July 31, 2001, 4:30 p.m., Funger 320
Speaker:  Professor Margaret Murray, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
Title:  American Women in Mathematics: From Christine Ladd-Franklin to Mary-Louise Parker

Abstract: In this talk I give an historical overview of the participation of American women in mathematics, from the 1870s until the present day. My emphasis will be on how far we have come --- and how far we still need to go --- toward full acceptance of women in the American mathematical community.

Thursday, August 2, 2001, 4:30 p.m., Funger 320
Speaker:  Professor Isabel Bajeux-Besnainou, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
Title:  Finance in Mathematics

Abstract: Finance has become more and more technical over the years. In particular, when it comes to pricing derivatives securities --- as options, futures, swaps or more exotic instruments --- techniques from Probability theory, stochastic calculus, partial differential equations are key. This presentation will give an overview of what are the most important mathematical techniques in Finance.

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Program Email: spwm@gwu.edu