#USA #Philadelphia #Peking University #Fields Medal #2026 ICM

Historic Achievement: Fields Medals Awarded to Two Alumni

On July 23, 2026, the International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) opened in Philadelphia, spotlighting significant accomplishments in the world of mathematics. Among the highlights, two graduates from Peking University (PKU), Wang Hong and Deng Yu, received the prestigious Fields Medals, recognised as one of the highest honors in the field of mathematics.

This recognition not only acknowledges their extraordinary contributions to mathematics but also symbolizes a historic moment for Peking University. It marks the first instance where two alumni from the same graduating class—in 2007—received this distinguished accolade in the same year. The International Mathematical Union (IMU) confers the Fields Medal every four years to mathematicians under the age of 40, celebrating their impactful work and promising potential.

Wang, who has made headlines for her collaboration with Joshua Zahl in solving the three-dimensional Kakeya conjecture, is particularly noteworthy. This long-standing problem, sitting at the intersection of analysis and geometry, has presented a formidable challenge to mathematicians for decades, influencing numerous fields in mathematics. As a tenured professor at the Institute des Hautes Études Scientifiques (IHES) in Paris, her groundbreaking work continues to inspire and set benchmarks in contemporary mathematics.

Deng, on the other hand, began his journey at PKU's Department of Mathematical Sciences in 2007 before advancing to MIT for his undergraduate studies. He later obtained his Ph.D. at Princeton University and is currently a professor at the University of Chicago. His pivotal research, achieved in collaboration with Ma Xiao and Zaher Hani, made significant strides toward addressing the sixth problem proposed by David Hilbert over a century ago, establishing a rigorous mathematical process that connects the dynamics of microscopic particles to macroscopic kinetic and fluid equations.

The achievements of both Wang and Deng are a testament to the growing international prominence of mathematicians from PKU. Their paths, though diverse, converged at PKU, where their foundational experience has propelled them onto the global stage.

Furthermore, in addition to the Fields Medals awarded to Wang and Deng, Peking University set another record at the ICM 2026 by having 14 representatives, including 10 alumni and 4 faculty members, invited to present their work. This influx of representation underscores the university's role as a nurturing ground for mathematical talent and innovation.

In summary, the recognition of Wang Hong and Deng Yu at the ICM 2026 emphasizes not only their individual achievements but also the collective success of Peking University. As they continue to break boundaries in mathematics, they serve as role models for aspiring mathematicians worldwide.