From Chengdu to Grothendieck
" Mathematics and engineeringengineering atMontpellier UniversityMontpellier: from fundamental theories to modern applicationsfundamental theories to modern applications " is the theme of the 2026 Winter School at the UM Faculty of Science, which is hosting a delegation of Chinese students from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in Chengdu from February 2 to 7.
Inaugurated by François Pierrot, Vice President for International Relations at UM, this event is sponsored by two major scientific figures from Montpellier: Alexander Grothendieck, who revolutionized algebraic geometry and embodied the power of pure mathematical abstraction, and Jean-Jacques Moreau, founder of convex analysis and non-smooth mechanics, whose ideas paved the way for modern modeling of granular and divided media.
The program for this Winter School, led by professors Adam Ali and Émilien Azéma, includes lectures, presentations, and visits highlighting the uniqueness of Montpellier's scientific landscape, which combines mathematical thinking, engineering, and innovation. It is an opportunity to illustrate the vitality of the cooperative partnerships that unite our two institutions.