Winners of Abel Prize in Mathematics

Year

Winner

Contribution

2016

Andrew Wiles

For the stunning proof of Fermat's Last Theorem by way of the modularity conjecture for semistable elliptic curves, opening a new era in number theory.

2015

John F. Nash, Jr.;Louis Nirenberg

For striking and seminal contributions to the theory of nonlinear partial differential equations and its applications to geometric analysis.

2014

Yakov Sinai

For the fundamental contributions to dynamical systems, ergodic theory, and mathematical physics.

2013

Pierre Deligne

For seminal contributions to algebraic geometry and for their transformative impact on number theory, representation theory, and related fields.

2012

Endre Szemerédi

For the contributions to discrete mathematics and theoretical computer science, and in recognition of the profound and lasting impact of these contributions on additive number theory and ergodic theory.

2011

John Milnor

For pioneering discoveries in topology, geometry, and algebra.

2010

John Tate

For his vast and lasting impact on the theory of numbers.

2009

Mikhail Gromov

For the revolutionary contributions to geometry.

2008

John G. Thompson; Jacques Tits

For the profound achievements in algebra and in particular for shaping modern group theory.

2007

S. R. Srinivasa Varadhan

For the contributions to probability theory and in particular for creating a unified theory of large deviation.

2006

Lennart Carleson

For his profound and seminal contributions to harmonic analysis and the theory of smooth dynamical systems.

2005

Peter Lax

For his groundbreaking contributions to the theory and application of partial differential equations and to the computation of their solutions.

2004

Michael Atiyah; Isadore Singer

For their discovery and proof of the index theorem, bringing together topology, geometry and analysis, and their outstanding role in building new bridges between mathematics and theoretical physics.

2003

Jean-Pierre Serre

For playing a key role in shaping the modern form of many parts of mathematics, including topology, algebraic geometry and number theory.