Chanwoo Kim is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics. He received his Ph.D from Brown University. His research specializes in the field of partial differential equations in kinetic theory and fluid dynamics.
A word from Timo Seppalainen, Chair of Mathematics Department:
Chanwoo's research area is partial differential equations. He has been working on non-equilibrium solutions to the kinetic Boltzmann equation and its links with fluid dynamics. Human resource development is dear to his heart. He has successfully mentored postdocs and students. In this same spirit he is raising three children, two of whom were born in Madison, an effort greatly helped by the parental leave program of UW-Madison and generous departmental arrangements.
Written Q&A with new tenured faculty: Chanwoo Kim
Describe your primary research, as well as its significance to your field and, if applicable, current issues and events.
My research focuses on developing new methods to study applied partial differential equations (PDEs) and, in particular, problems concerning properties of solutions of Boltzmann equation and fluid free boundary problems. The object of Boltzmann equation is any system made up of a large number of particles such as gas, plasma, microfluidics and polymers. I have been studying quantitative properties of solutions, in particular, when the gas particles contact the boundary. I also have been studying the free interface problems between two fluids which arise naturally in many applications in fluid mechanics.
Describe what your research specifically involves (travel, experiments, historical texts, etc.). What’s most exciting and challenging about it?
Two important cornerstones of my research are developing new mathematical frameworks and formulating mathematical problems from scientifically significant equations. It is always exciting to see how beautiful mathematics naturally stem from scientific questions.
What drew you to UW-Madison (i.e. how did you end up on the faculty here?)
UW-Madison has a great tradition and reputation in mathematics. In particular, it has been one of the pivotal centers in the field of partial differential equations for several decades. It is a great honor to continue the legacy and build a new tradition. In addition, Madison is the perfect place for my three kids (praise 4K!) and wife.
Describe your teaching style. What kinds of strategies do you use to keep students engaged?
The main goal is to foster students’ thinking ability. I believe that mathematics has been established in the process of posing and answering questions. In lectures I intentionally prevent students from mere memorization, and from using preexisting formulas or recipes just mechanically. Instead, I always make my classes dynamic and interactive and encourage open discussion around questions such as, ’How can we formulate this problem in a mathematical setting?’ and ’Can we make more direct and elegant alternatives to the solution in text books?’ I am looking forward to having the chance to teach and work with enthusiastic students and in turn they will help me to improve my teaching much more.
What do you like most about teaching and researching at UW-Madison?
I have found many talented undergraduate and graduate students. I look forward to training many PhD students who will contribute to society and academia significantly.