Meet Professor Anne Taormina - new Head of Mathematics

Congratulations on the new appointment, how does it feel to be the new Head of Department for Mathematics?

It is an honour to join a vibrant and dynamic department filled with such potential, enthusiasm, and goodwill. As an external appointee, I am aware that many of my colleagues are new to me, and I look forward to taking the time to build mutual trust and respect with them.

No matter the experience I bring, I continue to learn every day by listening to and collaborating with my peers. Together, I am confident we can shape our department into the premier destination for groundbreaking research and the passionate transmission of mathematical knowledge to the next generation. Our staff and students come from diverse backgrounds and cultures, enriching us both intellectually and emotionally. This diversity is not only our strength but also an inspiration as we work to nurture talent and create an inclusive and flourishing academic community.

What are your priorities for the first year as Head of Department?

The recent significant expansion in staff numbers brings both challenges and exciting opportunities. To harness this potential effectively, it is essential to develop a clear, overarching vision through a comprehensive Research and Education Strategy.

These strategies will enable the department to focus its efforts strategically, maximizing its impact and achieving excellence in both academic and educational pursuits. Our goal is to establish these strategies within the first six months, working closely with the Deputy Heads of Department for Research and Education, while actively seeking input from as many colleagues as possible. 

This collaborative process is vital to ensure alignment with the broader strategies of the College and Faculty. Additionally, I am deeply committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, regardless of their role. While space constraints present some challenges, we must work together to ensure optimal working conditions that foster productivity, inclusivity, and wellbeing for all.

Can you tell us a little bit about your background and career to date, as well as a few highlights?

I was born in Wallonia, Belgium, where I lived and studied until the age of 26. I attended Mons University to study Mathematics, initially intending to become a teacher. However, in my third undergraduate year, a course on Mathematical Methods of Physics—essentially a Group Theory course focused on applications in particle physics—sparked my passion for research and set me on the path to pursue a PhD.

After completing my doctorate, I stayed in Mons for my first postdoctoral position. During this time, I had the privilege of visiting the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) for extended periods, where I began studying string theory "from scratch" under François Englert – a Belgian theoretical physicist who was later awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics in 2012, alongside Peter Higgs, for the discovery of the Brout-Englert-Higgs mechanism. François became both a collaborator and a dear friend.

Following my time in Mons, I spent a year at the École Normale Supérieure in Paris, where I wrote several papers that, two decades later, contributed to the discovery of Mathieu Moonshine, an area that continues to inspire my research today. From Paris, I moved to CERN for two years, where I met my husband, before heading to the University of Chicago for a few memorable years, during which my first child was born. Our family was fortunate to solve the "two-body problem" at Durham University, where I spent 33 years.

My career there evolved from being a full-time researcher to Lecturer, Reader, and eventually Professor. From January 2014 to December 2018, I served as Head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences, an experience unlike any before. Through determination and teamwork, we convinced university leadership to replace our outdated 1960s mathematics building.

This effort culminated in the design of a new facility, shared with Computer Science, in 2017, with construction beginning in 2018. This period also marked a breathtaking expansion of the department, as our staff numbers doubled within just four years. Reflecting on this transformative chapter, I am deeply proud of the collective achievements and the legacy of growth and renewal that will benefit future generations.

If you could only take one piece of music, one tool and one famous celeb (alive or dead) to a desert island, who or what would you take and why?

Music: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons

Why? I am captivated by the energy it radiates and the wide range of emotions it evokes. Whether interpreted as a celebration of nature’s changing seasons or an allegory for the stages of human life, the music paints vivid mental images and inspires deep reflection. I am also in awe of the virtuosity of the violinists who bring it to life—achieving such dexterity undoubtedly demands immense talent and countless hours of dedication. And on a personal note, Vivaldi’s birthplace, Venice, is near where one of my grandfathers was born, adding a sentimental connection.

Tool: A Swiss Army knife.

Why? Its versatility and practicality make it indispensable, particularly for outdoor adventures. It is a simple yet ingenious tool that has proven its worth in countless situations, from the mundane to the extraordinary.

Famous figure: Barack Obama.

Why? I have long admired his leadership, as reflected in his books, interviews, and tenure as President, but I would love the chance to test and deepen this perception through personal conversation. I imagine he would be a thoughtful and engaging interlocutor, offering perspectives shaped by experiences vastly different from my own. As the first African-American President of the United States, he also symbolizes hope for greater diversity in leadership roles—a legacy that resonates deeply with me.