Zuowei Shen

Biography

Zuowei Shen is a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the National University of Singapore (NUS). His academic journey began in China with a Bachelor of Science degree from Hohai University in 1982. He continued his studies at the University of Alberta, Canada, earning a Master of Science in 1987 and a Doctorate in Philosophy in 1991. Shen's research concentrates on the mathematical foundations of data science, with a focus on approximation theory, wavelet theory, image processing, compressed sensing, and machine learning. His work emphasizes developing mathematics for practical applications in collaboration with his peers. In approximation and wavelet theory, he has explored box spline spaces and developed interpolatory subdivision schemes and wavelets, which led to advancements in wavelet theory. The duality analysis for frames underpins key principles for Gabor and wavelet frames, facilitating adaptable constructions for various applications. His exploration of sparse approximation methods has resulted in successful image restoration applications using iterative thresholding algorithms, achieving sparse representations in the wavelet frame domain. These methods have also inspired projects such as iterative singular value thresholding for low-rank matrix completion and bridging frame-based models with total variation models for image processing. Further extending his research, Shen's data-driven approach in machine learning established a framework that views deep neural networks as function approximators, highlighting their universal approximation properties and efficiency across diverse architectures. Recognized as a fellow of prestigious societies, including the Singapore National Academy of Science, the American Mathematical Society (AMS), the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM), The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), and the European Academy of Sciences, Shen has been honored with awards like the National Science Award of Singapore and the Wavelet Pioneer Award from SPIE. He has been invited to speak at notable conferences such as the International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) and the International Congress on Industrial and Applied Mathematics (ICIAM). At NUS, Shen has significantly contributed in roles such as Director of the Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Vice Provost, Dean of the Graduate School, Dean of the Faculty of Science, and Head of the Department of Mathematics. His contributions have been acknowledged with the Public Administration Medal (Silver) in Singapore. Internationally, Shen actively contributes to the academic community through editorial positions on boards of leading journals in mathematics and its applications, such as Forum of Mathematics and various SIAM journals. He also serves on committees like the TWAS Membership Advisory Committee, ICIAM program committees, ICM speaker selection panels, and the ICIAM Prize Committee, enhancing his engagement with the global mathematical community. Through his research, teaching, and service, Zuowei Shen strives to advance the field of mathematics and its applications constructively, support the academic community, and foster the development of emerging researchers.