Shihoko Ishii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Shihoko Ishii
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| Born | 1950 |
| Nationality |  Japan |
| Alma mater | Tokyo Metropolitan University |
| Known for | Singularity theory |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Mathematics |
| Institutions | University of Tokyo |
Shihoko Ishii (Japanese: 石井志保子, born in 1950) is a Japanese mathematician. She is a professor at the University of Tokyo. Her main area of study is algebraic geometry, which uses algebra to solve problems about shapes and spaces.
Contents
Becoming a Mathematician
Early Studies
Shihoko Ishii started her university journey in 1973. She earned her first degree from Tokyo Women's Christian University. After that, she continued her studies at Waseda University, where she received her master's degree in 1975.
Earning a PhD
Later, in 1983, she completed her PhD from Tokyo Metropolitan University. Getting a PhD means she became an expert in her chosen field of mathematics.
What She Studies
Singularity Theory
Professor Ishii's research mainly focuses on something called singularity theory. Imagine a smooth surface, like a balloon. Now, imagine a cone. The tip of the cone is a "singularity" – a special point where the surface isn't smooth. Singularity theory is about understanding these unique points in mathematical shapes.
Arc Spaces and Jets
She also studies "arc spaces." These are mathematical tools that help scientists understand how curves behave around those "special points" or "singularities" on a shape. Think of it like looking at all the possible paths you could draw on a surface, especially near a sharp corner. This helps mathematicians learn more about the shape itself. Arc spaces are related to "jets," which describe how curves look very, very close to a specific point.
Awards and Recognition
Saruhashi Prize
In 1995, Shihoko Ishii received the Saruhashi Prize. This award is very special because it recognizes Japanese women researchers who have made important discoveries in natural sciences. She was inspired to pursue her career after reading about Fumiko Yonezawa, a physicist who had also won this prize.
Algebra Prize
Her work was recognized again in 2011. She received the Algebra Prize from the Mathematical Society of Japan. This award highlights her important contributions to the field of algebra.
Asian Scientist 100
In 2022, Professor Ishii was named one of the Asian Scientist 100 by the Asian Scientist magazine. This list celebrates the top scientists in Asia who are making a big difference in their fields.
