Professor Jens Marklof, Henry Overton Wills Professor of Mathematics has won a Humboldt Research Award, which recognises researchers whose fundamental discoveries, new theories or findings have had a lasting effect on their discipline.
As one of the leading international researchers in mathematical physics, Professor Marklof’s work spans analysis, number theory, and theoretical physics. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of dynamical systems and quantum chaos.
His major achievements include solving a long-standing mathematical puzzle in quantum chaos known as the Berry-Tabor conjecture, as well as fundamental contributions to the kinetic theory of the Lorentz gas, a model physicists use to understand the movement of particles.
Recipients of the Humboldt Award receive a financial award that enables them to carry out research projects of their own choice in collaboration with leading researchers in Germany.
Professor Marklof will be working with Professor Alexander Strohmaier and Professor Ulrich Derenthal at Leibniz University in Hannover. The collaboration is expected to help make advancements in fields such as spectral theory, microlocal analysis, and probabilistic methods in number theory.
Professor Marklof said: “I have always admired the Humboldt Foundation for the incredibly important work they do to foster international exchange and the positive impact they have, especially on researchers at the early stages of their careers.
“Receiving the Humboldt Research Award means a lot to me personally, and I very much look forward to joining the Humboldt Network and working with colleagues at Leibniz University.”
Professor Marklof’s work has received several previous distinctions, including the Whitehead Prize of the London Mathematical Society, an ERC Advanced Grant, and election as a Fellow of the Royal Society.
Professor Marklof will be presented with the award at a ceremony in Germany on 24 June 2026.