Ngo Bao Chau

Ngo Bao Chau is a world-renowned Vietnamese mathematician, most notably the first Vietnamese recipient of the prestigious Fields Medal in 2010. He is currently a distinguished service professor and chair of the mathematics department at the University of Chicago. He is newsworthy because he is leaving his position in the US to join the University of Hong Kong (HKU) as a chair professor in June. Chau cited a desire to help transform Asia into a global powerhouse for mathematics and science as a key reason for his move, along with dissatisfaction with the academic environment in the US. His decision highlights a potential shift in the global landscape of scientific research and education, with Asia becoming an increasingly attractive destination for top talent.