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Evan Nedyalkov
This chair is one of three Regius Professorships of Mathematics in the United Kingdom, the others being at St Andrews and Warwick. The Oxford Regius chair was created in 2016 as part of the 90th birthday celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II. James will succeed the inaugural postholder, Professor Sir Andrew Wiles.
James said of his appointment: “I’m delighted to be appointed as the new Regius Professor of Mathematics. Oxford is a fantastic place to do maths, and I feel exceptionally privileged to have spent most of my career here. It sometimes feels like there are exciting ideas bubbling away and breakthroughs happening in every office of the department. Mathematics is a very special subject where pure abstract thought and logic, often driven by mere curiosity, can lead to breakthroughs improving so many aspects of modern life. I’m rather daunted to follow on from the incredible legacy of Andrew Wiles, but I hope this position can be testament to the ongoing importance and increasing role of mathematics in the world."
Jon Chapman, Head of the Mathematical Institute, said: "We are delighted that James has accepted the Regius Professor of Mathematics. His work has led to some of the most significant advances in number theory of recent decades, and he is widely admired not only for the depth and originality of his research but also for his generosity as a colleague and mentor. As a former Oxford graduate student who has built his academic career here, James exemplifies the extraordinary mathematical talent that our community fosters. I can think of no better person to succeed Andrew Wiles in this prestigious role."
Jennifer Payne, Warden of Merton College, added: “The College offers Professor James Maynard our warmest congratulations on his appointment as the new Regius Professor of Mathematics. It is a fitting recognition of his outstanding contribution to mathematics. We look forward to welcoming him into the College.”