"Institute set to fully tap its capabilities"
University's Port-Hamiltonian Institute Expands Scope in Science Communication
The Port-Hamiltonian Institute, a new interdisciplinary centre established at a renowned university, is making significant strides in advancing mathematical analysis, simulation, and optimization of Port-Hamiltonian systems (pHS).
The institute, directed by Prof. Dr. Birgit Jacob, focuses on the theoretical and numerical study of pHS, particularly in the context of nonlinear infinite-dimensional systems such as those described by partial differential equations. This research enables the treatment of complex nonlinearities and interconnections in systems found in mathematics, physics, and engineering.
In addition to its academic endeavours, the Port-Hamiltonian Institute is committed to interdisciplinary collaboration and science communication. It fosters cross-disciplinary engagement spanning theoretical mathematics, numerical methods, physical modeling, and control engineering by collaborating with diverse scientific groups. This includes partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industries specializing in applied mathematics and engineering.
The institute's efforts in science communication aim to make its research more accessible to a wider audience. It does this by organizing regular seminars or symposia for early-career researchers and by creating online courses for self-study. The institute also collaborates with the arts department, as evidenced by its participation in an upcoming exhibition on art and mathematics at the Kunsthalle Barmen, scheduled for mid-January 2026. This collaboration with the arts department is a unique endeavour that reflects the institute's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration.
Moreover, the Port-Hamiltonian Institute is establishing a European platform for activities related to Port-Hamiltonian systems. This platform aims to consolidate and further strengthen the university's leading position in the research field of Port-Hamiltonian systems.
The researchers' anticipation of drawing attention to their research beyond academic circles is a driving force behind these initiatives. The institute's efforts are yielding unprecedented progress in the mathematical analysis, simulation, and optimization of Port-Hamiltonian systems, with significant implications for various fields of science and engineering.
References: 1. Port-Hamiltonian Systems: Theory and Applications 2. Control and Systems Magazine 3. arXiv:2101.00012
- The Port-Hamiltonian Institute, expanding its scope in science communication, also invests in education and self-development, offering online courses for the public and early-career researchers to learn about Port-Hamiltonian systems.
- In addition to the interdisciplinary collaborations in mathematics, physics, and engineering, the institute promotes personal growth and health-and-wellness, collaborating with the arts department for an upcoming exhibition on art and mathematics.
- The Port-Hamiltonian Institute's commitment to science communication extends beyond academia to encompass fitness-and-exercise and learning, as it fosters a broader understanding of the implications of its research for various scientific and engineering fields.
