IISc’s Mahesh Kakde Wins Ramanujan Prize 2026 For Algebraic Number Theory Research

Last Updated:October 08, 2026, 09:44 IST

Prof Mahesh Kakde’s research focuses on algebraic number theory, a field that uses algebraic methods to study numbers and their relationships.

Professor Mahesh Kakde is a professor in the Department of Mathematics at IISc Bengaluru. (Image: math.iisc.ac.in/File Photo)

Mahesh Kakde, a mathematics professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has won the Ramanujan Prize 2026 for his research in algebraic number theory. The prestigious award recognises young mathematicians from developing countries for outstanding contributions to mathematics.

Kakde’s research focuses on algebraic number theory, a field that uses algebraic methods to study numbers and their relationships.

Kakde’s main research area is Iwasawa theory. His work includes important results in non-commutative Iwasawa theory, as well as research related to the Gross-Stark and Brumer-Stark conjectures.

His research also connects with David Hilbert’s 12th problem. In 1900, German mathematician David Hilbert presented 23 major unsolved problems in mathematics. The 12th problem focused on understanding certain extensions of number fields. Kakde’s work has contributed to research in this area.

Kakde is a professor in the Department of Mathematics at IISc Bengaluru. He studied mathematics at the Indian Statistical Institute and later completed his Master’s degree and PhD in Pure Mathematics from the University of Cambridge in 2008. His doctoral supervisor was renowned mathematician John Coates.

The Ramanujan Prize is among several major honours received by Kakde. His previous recognitions include the Infosys Prize in Mathematical Sciences in 2022, the Whitehead Prize of the London Mathematical Society in 2023, the Frontiers of Science Award in 2023 and the National Science Award in 2024. He was also elected a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences in 2023.

The Ramanujan Prize for Young Mathematicians from Developing Countries is jointly awarded by the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) and the International Mathematical Union (IMU). Established in 2005, the award recognises outstanding research by mathematicians under the age of 45 working in developing countries. The prize carries an award of $10,000.

Quick Answers

Powered by

Ask News18

What is the Ramanujan Prize 2026 and who won it?

Mahesh Kakde, a mathematics professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, has won the Ramanujan Prize 2026 for his outstanding research in algebraic number theory. Jointly awarded by the ICTP and the IMU, the prize recognises young mathematicians under 45 from developing countries and carries an award of $10,000.

What are the key research areas of mathematician Mahesh Kakde?

Kakde specialises in algebraic number theory, with a primary research focus on Iwasawa theory. His notable work includes important results in non-commutative Iwasawa theory, research related to the Gross-Stark and Brumer-Stark conjectures, and contributions connected to David Hilbert’s 12th problem.

What are some of the other major awards received by Mahesh Kakde?

Prior to winning the 2026 Ramanujan Prize, Kakde received several major honours including the Infosys Prize in Mathematical Sciences in 2022, the Whitehead Prize in 2023, the Frontiers of Science Award in 2023, and the National Science Award in 2024. He was also elected a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences in 2023.

Powered by

Ask News18

About the Author

Education.Careers Desk

A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, …Read More

Read More