Thousands of the world’s top scientists will be heading to Banff – but not for the scenery.
On Monday, the governments of Alberta, Canada and the United States announced the establishment of a $5-million international mathematical research facility.
It will be housed in The Banff Centre, which is well-known for its programs in music, mountain culture, writing and publishing, visual arts and centre for management.
Scientists and researchers will come to the Banff International Research Station (BIRS) for Mathematical Innovation and Discovery to attend intense workshops and take part in collaborative research efforts and training sessions across the spectrum of pure and applied mathematical sciences.
“The bringing together of imaginative minds through BIRS is directly in line with The Banff Centre’s mandate,” said Mary Hofstetter, president and CEO of The Banff Centre.
“This mandate is to support creative excellence, foster innovative research opportunities and encourage cross-disciplinary exploration and discovery.” BIRS is the first centre of its kind in North America.
Modelled on two similar European facilities, it is expected to enhance research capacity and help develop the careers of young researchers in North America.
The National Science Foundation of the United States committed $1.95 million, the Alberta Research Authority $1.7 million and the National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada $1.5 million.
Dr. Nassif Ghoussoub, director of the Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences (PIMS), which spearheaded the venture in Canada, said: “BIRS will become a focal point for leading mathematical research in Canada and the world.”
