A team of scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has achieved a breakthrough in the fields of physics and mathematics by discovering a new series representation for the irrational number π, also known as pi. The research, conducted within the realm of string theory, has introduced a novel approach for deriving pi from calculations related to complex processes like quantum scattering of high-energy particles.

Led by post-doctoral researcher Arnab Saha and Professor Aninda Sinha from the Center for High Energy Physics (CHEP) at IISc, the study has resulted in the formulation of a unique formula that closely approximates the historically significant series for pi put forward by Indian mathematician Sangamagrama Madhava in the 15th century. This marks the first-ever series for pi recorded in history.

Sinha explains, "Our initial focus was not specifically on uncovering a new perspective on pi. Instead, our efforts were concentrated on delving into high-energy physics within the domain of quantum theory, to develop a model with refined parameters to understand particle interactions. The discovery of a new method for interpreting pi naturally emerged from this pursuit."

The research team's specialization in string theory, a theoretical framework proposing that all quantum processes in nature originate from various modes of vibrations on a string, primarily revolves around the interactions of high-energy particles. The study aims to unravel the complexities of understanding particle interactions by employing minimal and straightforward factors. This approach falls under the purview of "optimization problems," which involves modeling intricate processes while considering numerous parameters for each moving particle, including factors such as mass, vibrations, and degrees of freedom relevant to its movement.

Saha, who has been actively engaged in addressing the optimization problem, sought to establish an efficient model for representing these particle interactions. As part of this endeavor, he collaborated with Sinha to combine two mathematical tools—an Euler-Beta Function and the Feynman Diagram—to develop an efficient model. Euler-Beta functions, widely used to solve problems in various branches of physics and engineering, including machine learning, were integrated with the Feynman Diagram, a mathematical representation explaining energy exchange during particle interactions and scattering.

The integration of these mathematical tools has not only resulted in an efficient model that illuminates particle interactions but has also led to an innovative series representation of pi. In mathematics, a series is used to represent a parameter such as pi in its fundamental form. Sinha explains, "Finding the correct number and combination of parameters to rapidly approach the exact value of pi has long presented a challenge. The series discovered by our team combines specific parameters in a manner that enables rapid attainment of the value of pi, which can then be incorporated into calculations relating to the deciphering of high-energy particle scattering."

The implications of these findings are profound, as they have opened up new avenues for advancing our understanding of complex mathematical and physical phenomena. Sinha highlights that while the practical applications of these theoretical findings are not yet fully realized, historical precedents—such as Paul Dirac's groundbreaking work in 1928, which ultimately led to the design of Positron Emission Tomography (PET)—underscore the potential for unforeseen practical applications arising from fundamental theoretical research.

The research, while currently theoretical, represents a significant milestone in the fields of mathematical and theoretical physics. As indicated by Sinha, "Engaging in such research, despite its potential non-immediate practical applications, offers the pure pleasure of engaging in theory for the sake of advancing the frontiers of scientific knowledge."

The University of North Florida in Jacksonville has unveiled its first Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program, to add to the other prestigious doctoral programs offered at UNF. The new Ph.D. in Computing is now accepting applications and will open in Fall 2024.  

While UNF already offers professional doctoral degrees such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and the Doctor of Education Degree (EdD), the new Ph.D. in Computing is a traditional research-based doctorate and can lead to research-focused careers in academia, industry or government. 

“As UNF's first Ph.D. program, this serves as an important step in UNF’s evolution as a top research university,” said Dr. William (Chip) Klostermeyer, dean of UNF’s College of Computing, Engineering and Construction. “It will help us recruit new faculty and students as well as enable new partnerships with local industry, other universities and funding agencies. We spent many years working to establish a Ph.D. in the School of Computing and are very proud to have finally received approval.”  

The program offers students an advanced, research-based education in computing to prepare students for research and development roles in private and public sectors and for collegiate academic positions. The curriculum focuses on intelligent systems and cybersecurity, preparing students to conduct research and study a wide range of computing topics, including AI, data mining, computer security and algorithms. Concentrations in cybersecurity and intelligent systems will be available.  

The cybersecurity concentration is focused on studying the concepts, theories and security foundations of computing and communication systems to develop innovative solutions for enhancing the security of computing environments and to contribute to cybersecurity literature. 

The intelligent systems concentration focuses on studying theories, concepts and systems inspired by the intelligent behaviors of humans, species and biological systems. The program encourages multidisciplinary research approaches and prioritizes research problems with direct economic and community impacts.  

For more information and to apply, visit the Ph.D. in Computing webpage. 

Christine Reilley has been appointed managing director of publishing for The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), reporting to Chief Operating Officer Jeff Patterson. One of the largest technical publishing operations in the world, ASME offers thousands of titles including some of the engineering profession's most prestigious peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and ASME Press e-books.

“With this appointment, ASME reaffirms our longstanding commitment to support global research communities through the production and distribution of high-quality journals, conference proceedings and new content types,” said Jeff Patterson, ASME’s chief operating officer. “Christine’s deep background in strategy, innovation, and publishing workflows makes her the ideal leader to accelerate our efforts to raise impact factors, improve paper submission and review processes, and increase subscriber satisfaction.”

Reilley began her tenure with ASME more than 20 years ago in the publishing department as an editor, overseeing the production of codes and standards from manuscript to final bound and digital product. In 2012, she moved to the emerging technologies unit, leading the development of content and conferences in the areas of bioengineering, nanotechnology, thermofluids, and materials. She also served as staff lead for the bioengineering/healthcare team and the engineering sciences segment. Most recently, she was managing director of strategy and innovation for ASME.

Reilley earned a Master of Science degree in biomedical engineering with a concentration in tissue engineering and biomaterials from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Rutgers University, Douglass College.

In a strategic move aimed at strengthening its support for federal agencies and advancing national security objectives, Woolpert has announced the hiring of Geospatial Intelligence Leader Damien Kerr.

Kerr's appointment marks a significant milestone in Woolpert's commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to federal clients and contributing to national security endeavors.