Mathematical Innovator Ingrid Daubechies Captivates UNAM Audience

Belgian mathematician Ingrid Daubechies, recipient of the Princess of Asturias Award and an Honorary Doctorate from UNAM, delivered a lecture to students and academics at UNAM’s Institute for Research in Applied Mathematics and Systems.

During her talk, Daubechies presented her groundbreaking work on continuous wavelets with compact support. She explained how these mathematical tools have been fundamental in studying human evolution and encouraged young people to engage with mathematics playfully and curiously.

She emphasized the vital role of applied mathematics in computing and its impact across diverse fields, from conserving artworks to enhancing video game experiences.

“It is essential for young people to stay curious. Curiosity is what drives discovery. Everything I’ve shared stems from interesting mathematical questions, it’s what motivates us to explore and learn,” Daubechies said, urging the audience to embrace new ideas and seek answers to their questions.

Daubechies is renowned for her contributions to wavelet theory, which has revolutionized signal and image processing. Her work has also played a key role in authenticating artworks, helping to restore masterpieces by artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Rembrandt.