Name and title:
Xin Zhou, Associate Professor, Mathematics
Academic focus:
Geometric analysis, calculus of variations, general relativity
Current research project:
I am working on variational theory of minimal surfaces and surfaces of prescribed mean curvature. These surfaces are mathematical models for soap bubbles and boundaries of black holes. I am developing analytical tools to study existence problems and properties of these types of surfaces.
Previous positions:
- Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, University of California Santa Barbara, 2016-2020
- C. L. E. Moore Instructor, Department of Mathematics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2013-2016
Academic background:
- Ph.D., Mathematics, Stanford University, 2013
- M.S. Mathematics, Peking University, 2008
- B.S. Physics and mathematics, Tsinghua University, 2006
Last book read:
"The Shape of a Life: One Mathematician's Search for the Universe's Hidden Geometry" by Shing-Tung Yau and Steve Nadis
In your own time/when not working:
Watching sports and playing table tennis
Courses you’re most looking forward to teaching:
Topics in Geometry
What most excites you about Cornell:
The fantastic academic environment, particularly the interaction with brilliant faculty members and students, and the beautiful campus.
