Events

Unless otherwise stated, the talks are held at 7pm in MR2 at the Centre for Mathematical Sciences (the CMS), Wilberforce Road.

The calendar is subject to change depending on circumstance. We apologise for any inconvenience such changes may cause.

To view past events, please visit the Past Events page.

Lent 2012

24th February, Stein's Paradox, Dr Richard Samworth (DPMMS)

Stein's paradox is one of the most surprising results in Statistics. Suppose X₁,...,X_p are independent random variables, with X_i ~ N(θ_i,1). If we want to estimate θ = (θ₁,...,θ_p), the most obvious choice is to use X = (X₁,...,X_p). It turns out that, provided p>2, we can find a better estimator, in a very natural sense that I will make precise. As well as giving the (fairly straightforward) proof, I will discuss geometric intuition and other explanations for this result, and discuss extensions. I will also show how the improved estimator can be used to give good predictions of baseball batting averages.

2nd March, Quantum Computing, Entanglement and Other Surprises, Prof Richard Jozsa (DAMTP)

Since the 1980s it has become evident that quantum mechanics has momentous implications for many aspects of information processing, communication and security. A new field of research - known as quantum computation and quantum information theory - has emerged, representing a remarkable synthesis of ideas from theoretical computer science (computational complexity theory), Shannon's information theory and quantum physics.

Quantum computation (intuitively, the use of elementary quantum processes as computational steps in place of Boolean operations) is now known to be able to provide exponentially faster algorithms for some computational tasks, than any known 'conventional' (classical) algorithm. This exponentially enhanced computing power may be traced to strange non-classical properties of quantum systems, in particular the phenomenon of entanglement. Entanglement can also be exploited to provide novel possibilities for communication such as the protocol known as quantum teleportation.

In this talk we will aim to explain the essentials of the fascinating connection between quantum mechanics and the theory of information processing, and discuss a few simple, yet strikingly surprising examples. Prior knowledge of the elements of quantum mechanics will not be assumed, although it would probably not be a disadvantage.

4th March, Archimedeans Problems Drive, Location and time: TBC

Compete in pairs in this light-hearted contest in witty mathematics and mathematical wit. There'll be various prizes for different achievements, and of course, light refreshments for all those who attend.

Annual General Meeting, Date: TBC, Location and time: TBC

Be at the AGM where there will be an annual review, a chance for you to raise any questions and the election of the new committee!

This is your opportunity, not only to continue the success of the Archimedeans, but to make the Society even better. It's an experience we highly recommend: it's enjoyable, you will learn a lot during your time on the committee, develop old and new skills (teamwork, communication, etc., which is always handy on the good ol' CV) and, not to mention, meet new people!

Nominations are not yet open, but if you are interested, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us, to find out more about what it is like being on the committee.