For Jennifer Chayes, math is a 'native tongue'
Summary
Jennifer Chayes, dean of UC Berkeley’s College of Computing, Data Science, and Society, discusses her foundational work in graph theory and its role in modern AI. She explains how mathematical concepts like phase transitions help understand network behavior and shares her journey from a rebellious youth to leading interdisciplinary research at Microsoft. Chayes also explores AI’s potential to accelerate scientific discovery in material science while advocating for equitable access and safety through education.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to Science Friday
Jennifer Chase's background in math and AI
Math as a mother tongue and early childhood
Phase transitions in networks and AI
Graphons and collective network behavior
Break and listener call-in request
Rebellious youth and learning to embrace risk
Interdisciplinary work at Microsoft
Reflections on gender and discrimination
AI in science: Metal-organic frameworks
Inoculating against AI harms and education
Final advice: Grab the brass ring
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