Mathematisches Forschungsinstitut Oberwolfach

The Mathematisches Forschungsinstitut Oberwolfach (MFO) was founded in 1944 and developed over the years into an international research centre. In mathematical research, interchange of ideas plays a central role. The high degree of abstraction of mathematics and the compact way it is presented necessitate direct personal communication. Although most new results are nowadays quickly made available to the mathematical community via electronic media, this cannot replace personal contact among scientists. The importance of personal contact can only increase with the constant increase of specialization. Therefore, the Institute concentrates on cooperative research activities of larger (Workshop program) or smaller (Mini-Workshop program and Oberwolfach Research Fellows) groups. In all activities, participation of promising junior scientists plays an important role.

Leading representatives of particularly relevant research areas from all over the world are invited to Oberwolfach (about 60% coming from abroad) offering them the opportunity to pursue their research activities. The Institute promotes the participation of especially gifted post-docs. The Institute's premises offer accommodation for about 55 - 60 visitors.

The Institute brings people together for a short but intense period, providing them with ideal conditions under which to pursue research activities which will influence and stimulate the future development of the field. The activities at the Oberwolfach Institute have resulted in many important publications.