Short Bio
I am an associate professor at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Before arriving in Michigan, I was a postdoc at Vanderbilt University . I received my PhD in 2007 from Texas A&M University . My advisor was Roger Smith .
Research Interests
I study von Neumann algebras, specifically, II_1 factors, which are infinite dimensional generalizations of the n by n matrices. I am particularly interested in infinite index subfactor inclusions, as that is where the most fascinating examples are. For copies of some of my papers, click here. For a brief overview of the theory of von Neumann algebras, including connections to what could loosely be termed "reality," see my research page. I also enjoy problems in Operator/Banach Spaces and Dynamical Systems and have done a little dabbling in the field of Quantum Computing.
Teaching
In the Fall of 2022, I will be teaching Calculus I and Advanced Calculus (both in person- for now!). For those of you enrolled in either class, go to Canvas. My office hours will be determined at a later point.
Fun Mathematical Links
- Math Department Twitter Page - self-explanatory.
- The ArXiv - preprints of scientific documents.
- MathSciNet - where ArXiv papers go when they have been thoroughly vetted.
- Math Overflow- research questions only!
- Math Stack Exchange- a less restrictive forum than Math Overflow.
- Terry Tao's Blog- great blog by a 2006 Fields Medalist.
- Wolfram Alpha- answers to all your computational questions!
- John Baez's Blog- an interesting mathematical physics blog.
- The n-Category Café- a broader blog on math, physics, and life. Both Baez and Tao contribute!
- The National Association of Math Circles- Don't know what a math circle is? Here's where you find out.
Fun Non-Mathematical Links
Now that I have tenure, I can do this.
- Slashdot - not always reliable semi-scientific news.
- Techdirt - tech news with a legal slant.
- George R.R. Martin's Blog - write, George, write.
- Marvel- 'nuff said.
- Image- some of the best work out there.
- ATP - not adenosine triphosphate, but the association of tennis professionals.
- WTA - the women's tennis association.
Contact
You may reach me by e-mail at adwiggin@@@umich...edu. If you are not a robot, you should be able to make that out. I can also be reached by phone at 313-593-5228. Finally, mail may be sent to
Alan Wiggins
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
2014 CASL Building
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, Michigan 48128-2406
