The “Friday Afternoon Mathematics Undergraduate Seminar” (FAMUS) is a weekly event consisting of announcements, talks, and faculty interviews. FAMUS takes place most Fridays at 3:00-4:00pm in Room 164 of the Adel Mathematics Building. Typically the first half of FAMUS consists of a talk on a mathematical topic while an interview of a faculty member takes place in the second half. FAMUS is hosted by Jeff Rushall.
Come join us for some entertaining talks! Refreshments always served.
Note that talks are listed in reverse chronological order.
Date: October 3, 2025
Speakers: Jeff Rushall (NAU)
Abstract: There are lots of interesting questions one can ask about prime numbers. These include: how many primes are there? Do primes occur with any regularity amongst the natural numbers? Why do we care about primes? Are there different/named types of primes? If so, why? And so on. In this talk I will answer some of these questions.
The faculty guest will be Misha Baltushkin. [PDF of Flyer]
Date: September 26, 2025
Speakers: Jeff Rushall (NAU)
Abstract: TAs all of you know, there have been some colorful and untimely ends to several famous mathematicians. I will describe the demise of a few of these characters while discussing (and remaining respectful of) the impact they had on math.
The faculty guest will be Gabe Markou. [PDF of Flyer]
Date: September 12, 2025
Speakers: Scott Akin, Vaughn Wilmer, Lauren Byrne, and Gunnar Johnson (NAU)
Abstract: The 4 students will talk about their experience in Lisbon last June: they’ll show pictures, tell stories, and discuss their opinions on the study abroad program. Then, instead of a faculty interview, the floor will be opened for Q&A. Yes, the program will run again in June 2026 (I hope!). [PDF of Flyer]
Date: September 5, 2025
Speakers: Jeff Rushall (NAU)
Abstract: Inspired by a comment of Katie Louchart, I will present a short history of magic squares and focus on magic square contributions made by none other than Benjamin Franklin. The talk will include some surprising historical tidbits.
The faculty guest is Dana Ernst. [PDF of Flyer]