On 8 May 2026, Fields Medalist and foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Prof Efim Zelmanov visited Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) to deliver a lecture at the invitation of BNBU’s Faculty of Science and Technology. His talk, titled “The Beauty of Mathematics”, attracted faculty and students from across the University.
Prof Efim Zelmanov at BNBU
The lecture was hosted by Prof Pan Jianxin, Vice President (Research and Development) of BNBU and Director of the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Research and Application for Data Science.
Prof Pan Jianxin hosts the lecture
Prof Zelmanov, Chair Professor at Southern University of Science and Technology, is one of the world’s leading mathematicians. He was awarded the Fields Medal in 1994 and has previously taught at institutions including the University of Chicago and Yale University.
During the lecture, Prof Zelmanov traced the historical development of mathematics and explored the relationship between mathematical proof, scientific discovery, and aesthetic beauty. Using examples such as group theory and finite fields, he illustrated how seemingly abstract mathematical theories have become foundational to modern technologies, including communications, cybersecurity, medical imaging, and artificial intelligence.
He encouraged students to embrace abstract thinking, cultivate curiosity, and build strong foundations through continuous exploration and problem-solving. During the interactive session, faculty and students discussed AI and mathematics, approaches to mathematical learning, and career prospects for mathematics graduates.
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Faculty and students share insights with Prof Efim Zelmanov during the lecture 
Prof Fang Kai-Tai presents a souvenir to Prof Zelmanov |
During his visit, Prof Zelmanov also toured the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Research and Application for Data Science, the Math Zone, and several cultural facilities on campus, gaining insight into BNBU’s research platforms and liberal arts education environment.
From MPRO
Editor: Cecilia Yu
Photographer: Hanna He
