Research Area(s):
Analysis
Applied Mathematics
Differential Equations
Mathematical Physics
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Joel Smoller has done research in shock-wave theory, Navier-Stokes equations, systems of reaction-diffusion equations, dynamical systems (Conley Index Theory), and bifurcation theory (symmetry-breaking bifurcations). Recently, Smoller has been concerned with problems involving gravity, as described by Einstein's Theory of General Relativity (GR), on two different scales: (A) Stability of Kerr (rotating) Black Holes under various perturbations: scalar waves, Dirac Fields, electromagnetic waves, and gravitational waves. This is ongoing work with Felix Finster (University of Regensburg), and S.T. Yau (Harvard), and (B) astrophysical shock-waves, done with Blake Temple (University of California, Davis). Here we are mainly concerned with astrophysical problems including an explanation of the "anomalous acceleration of the Universe", wholly within Einstein's equations of General Relativity, and avoiding the "cosmological constant", and the notion of "dark energy". He is also continuing an ongoing program of stellar dynamics, including rotating Newtonian stars, with Tao Luo, (Tsinghua University, Beijing).
News
Joel Smoller receives the George David Birkhoff Prize.
2009
The prize is awarded jointly by AMS and SIAM once every three years for an outstanding contribution to applied mathematics in the highest and broadest sense.Seed Magazine looks at a solution co-authored by Joel Smoller that seeks to explain how the observable universe can be expanding without employing the controversial and mysterious concept of "dark energy." 2009
Joel Smoller has been awarded a Humboldt Research Award for Senior U.S. Scientists. 2005
This award is given to researchers with internationally recognized academic qualifications and honors the academic achievements of the award winner's lifetime. Award winners are invited to carry out research projects of their own choice in Germany in cooperation with colleagues.
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