December 5, 2005

Working with UCSD Mathematics Professor,
San Diego Senior Wins $100,000 Scholarship
in National Science Competition

By Kim McDonald

A 16-year old San Diego senior working with a mathematics professor at the University of California, San Diego has won the top prize in the premier high school science competition for his innovative solution to a mathematics problem that could help in the design of airplane wings.

Michael Viscardi, a home schooled senior who takes graduate mathematics courses at UCSD three days a week, won a $100,000 college scholarship, the top individual prize, in the Siemens Westinghouse Competition in Math, Science and Technology today.

Working with Peter Ebenfelt, a professor of mathematics at UCSD, Viscardi developed a theorem to solve a 19th century math problem known as the Dirichlet problem, formulated by the mathematician Lejeune Dirichlet.

The theorem Viscardi created to solve the problem has potential applications in the fields of engineering and physics, including airplane wing design. He said he worked on the theorem for about six months with Ebenfelt.

“Michael Viscardi is an exceptionally gifted student,” said Ebenfelt. “In addition to being an obvious raw talent, he also has an enthusiasm for mathematics unlike anybody I have ever met. He is not afraid to work hard and does not get discouraged when a result appears distant or elusive. These things together form an unbeatable combination for success. It has been a true pleasure working with him over the past few years.”

Comment: Peter Ebenfelt (619) 957-8611 (cell);

Media Contact: Kim McDonald, UCSD, (858) 534-7572.