**Ukrainian Mathematician Makes History with US National Academy of Sciences Election**
In a remarkable achievement, Ukrainian mathematician Maryna Viazovska has been elected to the prestigious US National Academy of Sciences. This honor comes in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to mathematics, particularly in solving a 400-year-old problem that had stumped mathematicians for centuries.
**A Pioneering Mathematician**
Viazovska’s election to the NAS is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. As a professor and head of the Number Theory Chair at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland, she has made significant contributions to theoretical mathematics. Her work focuses on solving fundamental mathematical problems with applications in communications and cryptography.
**A 400-Year-Old Problem Solved**
Viazovska’s most famous achievement came in 2016 when she solved the sphere packing problem in 8-dimensional space, part of Hilbert’s 18th problem. This problem had remained unsolved for over 400 years, making her solution a major breakthrough in mathematics. According to experts, this achievement provides new insights for digital communications, coding theory, and cryptography.
**A Global Recognition**
Viazovska’s work has been widely recognized globally. In 2022, she became only the second woman in history to receive the Fields Medal, often described as the “Nobel Prize of Mathematics.” Time magazine also included her in its 2022 list of 100 people shaping the future of the world.
**The Significance of the US National Academy of Sciences**
The NAS is a private institution that recognizes scientific achievement through membership. Its members are selected for their distinguished achievements in original research, and this year’s class includes 150 new members from around the world. The NAS provides scientific guidance to the federal government and other organizations, making Viazovska’s election an important milestone not only for her but also for Ukraine.
**Commentary**
Maryna Viazovska’s election to the US National Academy of Sciences is a shining example of Ukrainian excellence in mathematics. Her groundbreaking work has made significant contributions to the field, and her recognition by the NAS is well-deserved. This achievement demonstrates that Ukraine has a strong foundation in scientific research and education, which will undoubtedly benefit the country and the world at large.
**Deeper Analysis**
The election of Maryna Viazovska to the US National Academy of Sciences highlights the importance of international cooperation in science. Her work has far-reaching implications for various fields, including communications and cryptography, demonstrating the power of mathematics to improve our daily lives. This achievement also underscores the value of diversity and inclusion in scientific research, as Viazovska’s contributions reflect her Ukrainian heritage.
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