Science
Mathematician Solves Century-Old Problem
Joan Birman, a 99-year-old mathematician, has solved the Burau representation problem with two colleagues. Their proof offers new insights into braid geometry.
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Scientific American
Joan Birman popularized the Burau representation problem decades ago. Now she and two colleagues have a proof that reveals brand new insights into the geometry of braids
2026-07-24 11:15 UTC