The mathematician who built bridges between geometry,
topology and physics.
From the Atiyah–Singer Index Theorem to ideas that transformed
gauge theory and modern mathematical physics, Michael Atiyah
showed how apparently distant branches of mathematics could
become one language.
Discover the mathematicians behind the Abel Prize.
From the inaugural laureate to the architects of modern
number theory, geometry and algebra, these six
documentaries offer a starting point for exploring the
lives and ideas honoured by the Abel Prize.
Why the world's greatest mathematics prize had to be created.
Mathematics never received a Nobel Prize. More than a century
later, Norway established the Abel Prize to honour a lifetime
of extraordinary mathematical achievement. Since 2003, the
prize has grown into one of mathematics' highest international
distinctions.
1829
Niels Henrik Abel dies
The Norwegian mathematical prodigy dies at just 26,
leaving behind ideas that would influence generations of
mathematicians.
1895
The Nobel Prizes are founded
Alfred Nobel establishes prizes in science and literature,
but mathematics is not included.
2002
Norway creates the Abel Prize
The Norwegian government establishes a permanent
international prize to recognise lifetime achievement in
mathematics.
2003
Jean-Pierre Serre becomes the first laureate
The inaugural award establishes a new global tradition for
honouring mathematicians whose work transformed the field.
2004
Atiyah and Singer share the prize
Geometry, topology and analysis take centre stage through
the influence of the Atiyah-Singer index theorem.
2008–2015
The prize expands across mathematics
Laureates from probability, number theory, analysis,
topology and mathematical physics demonstrate the breadth
of modern mathematics.
2019
Karen Uhlenbeck makes history
Uhlenbeck becomes the first woman to receive the Abel
Prize, recognised for pioneering work in geometric
analysis.
Today
A living mathematical legacy
Every year, the Abel Prize adds another remarkable career
to a growing record of the ideas and people shaping modern
mathematics.
2003
First Award
29
Laureates*
∞
Ideas
*Update the laureate total as new Abel Prize recipients are announced.
Continue Exploring
The Abel Prize is only one way mathematics remembers genius.
Continue through MigOroEdu to meet prize-winning mathematicians,
scientific pioneers and overlooked thinkers whose ideas changed
how humanity understands the world.
One lifetime’s work can change mathematics forever.
Discover more extraordinary mathematicians, scientific pioneers and
visionary thinkers whose ideas reshaped mathematics, science and our
understanding of the universe.
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