Institute of Mathematical Research

Mission and Goals

The Institute of Mathematical Research (IMR) was inaugurated in 1999. It was set up with the mission to lead mathematical research within the University and it has played a vital role in the promotion of pioneering and impactful mathematical research across tertiary institutions in Hong Kong. It vouches also to provide a platform for enhancing the role of Mathematics in interdisciplinary research. The IMR strives to generate an inspiring and stimulating intellectual atmosphere for students and researchers of Mathematics, providing them with opportunities for international exposure that will enhance their learning and research.

A World Institute of Research, Collaboration and Training

The Institute of Mathematical Research (IMR) has established strong collaborative ties with various well-known centres of mathematical research around the world in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, UK, Russia, China, Korea, Singapore and Israel. It provides opportunities and a stimulating ambiance for the training of future research mathematicians.

Research Programs

Under the leadership of eminent mathematicians, IMR runs a variety of rigorous and comprehensive programs in mathematical research. Key areas covered include (a) Several Complex Variables and Complex Geometry, (b) Algebra and Number Theory, (c) Geometry and Lie Groups, (d) Probability, Stochastics and Mathematical Finance and (e) Optimization, Computational Science and Information Theory. Research programs in new directions are being launched to capitalize on the changing landscape of research in Hong Kong and in the world.

Training Future Scholars at HKU

Several interdisciplinary programs in Information Theory, Random Matrix Theory and Mathematical Finance have been launched to increase the interest of researchers and students in the mathematical sciences. With our expertise in Optimization Theory, we envisage future interdisciplinary programs in Data Science and Scientific Computing with applications to Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Data Analytics.

China Outreach

Our active recruitment of leading mainland Chinese researchers and students has established IMR as a focal point for training and scholarly exchanges between China and the world. Especially, many top researchers in Mathematics from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) are active in research programs at the IMR. Besides researchers from the CAS, participants in our activities from Mainland China include among others those from top centres such as Fudan U., Tsinghua U., Peking U., Shanghai Jiaotong U., Nankai U., Nanjing U., Wuhan U., Shandong U. and East China Normal U.