Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the life and achievements of Zhang Yitang, a mathematician known for solving the twin prime conjecture, emphasizing his unique approach to mathematics and the importance of pursuing significant problems over conventional academic success [6][12][40]. Group 1: Zhang Yitang's Journey - Zhang Yitang faced numerous challenges in his early career, including job rejections and living in a trailer, before achieving fame at the age of 58 by solving a century-old mathematical problem [3][6]. - His return to China in June 2023 to join Sun Yat-sen University reflects a growing emphasis on basic scientific research in the country [3][36]. Group 2: Approach to Mathematics - Zhang's methodology involves focusing on a few significant problems for many years without seeking interim results, which is atypical in modern academia [6][14][22]. - He believes that the most important problems are those that have remained unsolved for decades, and he emphasizes the need for unique perspectives to achieve breakthroughs [7][23]. Group 3: Twin Prime Conjecture and Future Work - The twin prime conjecture posits that there are infinitely many pairs of prime numbers that differ by two, and Zhang proved that there are infinitely many pairs with a difference of less than 70 million [8][12]. - Following his proof, mathematicians collaborated to reduce the gap from 70 million to 246, showcasing the collaborative nature of modern mathematical research [8][12]. Group 4: Current Research Focus - Zhang is currently working on the Langlands-Siegel zero conjecture, which is considered a foundational problem in number theory, with potential implications for the Riemann hypothesis [8][30]. - He has expressed confidence in having made significant progress on this conjecture, although he finds the process of simplifying his findings challenging [9][30]. Group 5: Views on AI and Mathematics - Zhang is skeptical about AI's ability to solve complex mathematical problems like the Riemann hypothesis, emphasizing that human intuition and creativity are irreplaceable [12][33]. - He acknowledges that while AI can assist in mathematical research, it cannot fully replace human thought processes [33][35]. Group 6: Personal Philosophy and Motivation - Zhang's motivation stems from a deep curiosity and a desire to push the boundaries of knowledge rather than material success [12][40]. - He believes that the ability to focus intensely on mathematical problems is a crucial trait for success in the field [38].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the return of renowned mathematician Zhang Yitang to China, specifically to Sun Yat-sen University, after over 40 years abroad, highlighting the competitive nature of academic recruitment in China and Zhang's significant contributions to mathematics [2][3][4]. Group 1: Zhang Yitang's Academic Journey - Zhang Yitang, a prominent mathematician known for his work on the twin prime conjecture, has recently joined Sun Yat-sen University as the chief scientist of the newly established Hong Kong Advanced Institute [2][3]. - Prior to this, he was a tenured professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and had been contemplating a return to China for several years due to various international factors [3][4]. - His decision to join Sun Yat-sen University was somewhat unexpected, as he had other institutions lined up, but the university managed to secure his commitment at the last moment [4]. Group 2: Contributions to Mathematics - Zhang gained international recognition at the age of 58 for his groundbreaking paper "Bounded Gaps Between Primes," which provided significant progress on the twin prime conjecture [12][16]. - His research demonstrated the existence of infinitely many pairs of prime numbers with gaps smaller than 70 million, marking a historic advancement in number theory [11][12]. - This achievement was particularly notable as many experts had previously deemed the problem unsolvable, showcasing Zhang's unique approach and capabilities in mathematics [13][14]. Group 3: Personal Background and Philosophy - Born in 1955 in Shanghai, Zhang displayed exceptional mathematical talent from a young age, independently proving the Pythagorean theorem at the age of 10 [18][20]. - He faced significant challenges in his early career, including difficulties finding academic positions in the U.S. after completing his Ph.D., which led him to work in a restaurant temporarily [28][33]. - Zhang emphasizes the importance of passion for mathematics over material success, stating that he values the ability to continue his work in mathematics regardless of his circumstances [34].