What is the maximum age someone can be when winning the 'Fields Medal' in Mathematics?

The Fields Medal is a prize awarded to two, three, or four mathematicians under 40 years of age at the International Congress of the International Mathematical Union (IMU), a meeting that takes place every four years.

The Fields Medal is widely regarded as the highest honor a mathematician can receive, and has been described by many as the mathematician's "Nobel Prize". According to Academic Excellence Survey by ARWU, Fields Medal is the top award in the field of mathematics worldwide, and in another reputation survey conducted by IREG in 2013-14, Fields Medal came closely after Abel Prize as the second most prestigious international award in mathematics.

The prize comes with a monetary award, which since 2006 has been $15,000 CAD. The colloquial name is in honour of Canadian mathematician John Charles Fields. Fields was instrumental in establishing the award, designing the medal itself, and funding the monetary component.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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14 Comments

Lynne Zeman

I claim age discrimination. 😉 Smart is smart regardless of the number of years you have.

Karyn Mauro Rexelle

Why 39? As a senior citizen object!

Kathryn Waddell Jetter

The under-40 rule is based on Fields' desire that "while it was in recognition of work already done, it was at the same time intended to be an encouragement for further achievement on the part of the recipients and a stimulus to renewed effort on the part of others.From Wikipedia

Mic Fenst

Char, The Abel Prize is the "Nobel Prize of mathematics." It is awarded to persons of any age.

Louella Wilson

To claiming ageism, I would point out that most mathematicians have done done their best and most creative work long before the age of 40. That is not to say exceptional work is not possible after 40!

Carroll Price

Due to mathematics being racist and sexist, equity scouts are demanding they be canceled.

Char

Seems a bit not right due to age discrimination unless they have one for the older folks. I never heard of it before

Camille Curran

What a relief for Jack Benny. Who knew he aspired to this award.

Pat Wells

Fields wanted the person to be in the middle of his/her career, so that more work in the field could be done (according to Wikipedia). Makes sense, despite the "age discrimination."