JERUSALEM (Press Release) – The Hebrew University of Jerusalem congratulates former Hebrew University faculty member Prof. Avi Wigderson on receiving the prestigious Turing Award for his groundbreaking contributions to theoretical computer science, specifically his groundbreaking insights on randomness.
The A.M. Turing Award, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Computing,” is presented annually by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) to individuals who have made significant contributions of lasting importance to the field of computer science.
Algorithms developed by Prof. Wigderson serve as the foundation for the only encryption systems that can withstand an attack by a quantum computer. His research has led to innovation in internet cryptography and technology powering cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.
Prof. Wigderson, currently a professor at the Institute for Advanced Study School of Mathematics, was a Hebrew University faculty member for nearly 15 years. Much of his acclaimed research was conducted during his tenure at Hebrew University. This era marked a dynamic period in theoretical computer science, with Hebrew University emerging as a pivotal hub for computer science, largely due to Prof. Wigderson’s contributions and presence.
Wigderson was born in Israel in 1956 and is the son of Holocaust survivors.
In response to the announcement, Hebrew University President Prof. Asher Cohen expressed pride in Professor Wigderson’s achievements, saying “We are immensely proud of Professor Avi Wigderson’s remarkable accomplishment. His dedication to advancing the frontiers of theoretical computer science exemplifies the spirit of innovation and excellence that we cherish at Hebrew University. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his exceptional talent, intellect, and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge. On behalf of the entire Hebrew University community, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Wigderson on this well-deserved honor.”
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Preceding provided by Hebrew University of Jerusalem