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In his modest office, Prof. Chin-Lung Wang of NTU’s Department of Mathematics listens intently to a student’s presentation. Occasionally, he pauses to offer his reflections while gesturing at a dense mosaic of formulas on the whiteboard. This weekly meeting with his research team is a fixture in his schedule. Despite his recent induction as an Academician of Academia Sinica in July, Prof. Wang’s routine remains unchanged. “To bequeath a formula that will be used for hundreds of years—is there any greater joy?” He takes his new title with a calm indifference, viewing it as far less significant than making tangible contributions to theoretical science.

Prof. Wang‘s team focuses on the development of quantum geometry, a field that merges algebraic and differential geometry with string theory from physics. This interdisciplinary approach not only aids physicists in predicting the behavior of the microscopic world through the languages of mathematics but also inspires mathematicians to explore new concepts drawn from theories of physical phenomena. When discussing the impact of his research on the scientific community, Prof. Wang’s expression lights up, as if he could talk for hours without tiring.

Prof. Wang's love for mathematics began in high school, where he was captivated by its beauty. He pursued his research ambitions despite family opposition, enduring financial hardships along the way. These experiences left him deeply aware of the role financial support plays for young researchers. After joining NTU, he worked tirelessly to secure resources to establish scholarships, hoping to relieve students from financial concerns so they could focus on their academic pursuits without distraction.

Wang also emphasizes the importance of finding students who are a good fit for collaborative research. Reflecting on his studies in the United States, he recalls the strong culture of discussion and mutual growth among students. At NTU, he has worked actively to promote curriculum reform and cultivate a research-team culture. He proudly notes that NTU’s Department of Mathematics now offers a comprehensive training environment for students who share a passion for mathematics.

For Prof. Wang, the allure of mathematics lies in its purity—its constancy that persists amid an ever-changing world. Driven by a pursuit of “truth,” he has devoted much of his life to mathematics without regret. “Standing before the goddess of truth, you have no choice but to kneel,” he says, summing up his commitment to the field.

Honors and Contributions:

Prof. Chin-Lung Wang was recently inducted as an Academician at the 34th Convocation of Academia Sinica. Together with Prof. Hui-Wen Lin, he co-founded the Algebraic Geometry Group in Taida Institute of Mathematical Sciences (TIMS), a research team that continues to push the boundaries of mathematical knowledge.