Kent Professor awarded prestigious London Mathematical Society prize

Sam Wood
This is the first LMS prize to be one at Kent.

Peter Clarkson, Professor of Mathematics at the University of Kent’s School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science (SMSAS), has been awarded the Senior Anne Bennett Prize by the London Mathematical Society (LMS). This was announced at the Society’s General Meeting (held online), on 26 June 2020.

This prize is awarded every three years for work in, influence on or service to mathematics, particularly in relation to advancing the careers of women in the field. Peter is only the third winner of this prize, and the first ever winner of an LMS prize from Kent’s SMSAS.

The prize’s citation read: ‘Professor Peter Clarkson, of the University of Kent, is awarded a Senior Anne Bennett Prize in recognition of his tireless work to support gender equality in UK mathematics, and particularly for his leadership in developing good practice among departments of mathematical sciences.’

Professor Stéphane Launois, Acting Head of SMSAS, said: ‘I am so happy for Peter as it acknowledges his dedication to improve equality, diversity and inclusivity in SMSAS, and in the wider mathematical community for over 10 years. His influential work will certainly have a long-lasting influence on the UK mathematical community and beyond.’

Peter Clarkson, Professor of Mathematics in SMSAS for more than 25 years, said: ‘I am honoured to have been awarded the prize. It’s been a privilege to have worked alongside women in the promotion of gender equality in the UK Mathematics community.’