University of Utah mathematician Christopher Hacon has been named a Simons Foundation investigator for the inaugural year of a program aimed at supporting fundamental science.

The New York City-based charity, founded by philanthropists Jim and Marilyn Simons to advance research in mathematics and basic science, chose Hacon as one of 21 mathematicians, physicists and computer scientists — all hailing from world-class U.S. universities — for the honor. It comes with $1.3 million spread over the next five years.

"I plan to use these funds mainly to support graduate students, post-docs and visiting experts in algebraic geometry," Hacon said.

His research explores how polynomial equations can help scientists describe objects in multiple dimensions.

Hacon also is interested in "the minimal model program" or understanding higher dimensional surfaces.

Brian Maffly