Michel Talagrand, who pursued his research career at the CNRS, has received the Abel Prize

The Abel Prize is awarded to Michel Talagrand "for his groundbreaking contributions to probability theory and functional analysis, with outstanding applications in mathematical physics and statistics", the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters said in a statement. 

Michel Talagrand was recruited by the CNRS in 1974. He studied functional analysis, then probability and its applications until he retired in 2017. He was assigned to a laboratory, the Mathematics Institute of Jussieu-Paris Rive Gauche a joint unit between the French National Centre for Scientific Research, Sorbonne Université and Université Paris Cité.

"Congratulations to Michel Talagrand, whose outstanding research has had a considerable impact on mathematics and its applications. This award, which recognises his entire career at the CNRS, testifies to the excellence of French mathematics. It also serves as a reminder of the absolute urgency of investing in this discipline, which is vital for research, education, the major challenges facing society and our country's economy alike", emphasises Antoine Petit, Chairman and CEO of the CNRS.

Recognised as one of the most prestigious prizes in mathematics, the Abel Prize was created in 2003 in honour of the Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel, and rewards the lifetime achievement of a mathematician. It is handed out annually by the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters, following deliberation by a selection committee of international mathematicians.