(June 13, 1966- )
Born in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
Worked at the Steklov Institute of Mathematics
Solved the Poincare Conjecture, considered one of the most difficult and far-reaching math problems of the 20th century

He published his proof on the internet instead of in a peer-reviewed journal (2002).
He became the first person to refuse the Fields Medal, the highest award in mathematics (2006).
He earlier had rejected an award from the European Mathematical Society, claiming the prize committee was unqualified to assess his work.
He gave up math, quit his job and moved back in with his mother.
A colleague said, 'He looked like Rasputin.'

He won a gold medal with a perfect score in the International Mathematical Olympiad (1982).
He is a talented violinist.
His proof of the Poincare Conjecture was Science magazine's 'Breakthrough of the Year,' the first time the field of math was chosen for recognition.
After rejecting the Fields Medal he said, 'If the proof is correct, then no other recognition is needed.'

Credit: C. Fishel

http://www.amiannoying.com/view.aspx?ID=23605

E-mail Link to Friend | Report updates or corrections for this profile

For 2009, as of last week, Out of 28 Votes: 42.86% Annoying
In 2008, Out of 22 Votes: 27.27% Annoying

• Buddy! Dude! Man! Guy!
• C. Fishel's Profiles [Series 13]
• Look at Me, I'm Wearing a Baseball Cap
• Profiles 23501-23750 (Ranked: 23605)
• Recluses
• Too Old to Still Live at Home
• Wizard Beards