Richard W. Kenyon

Research in statistical mechanics, probability, and discrete geometry, particularly recognized for contributions in probability theory and continuum limits of random spatial processes. Breakthroughs include a proof that a loop-erased random walk has diameter n^(4/5) and that the Gaussian free field arises as a limit of tiling statistics. His proof of conformal invariance for dimer models opened the door for the development of SLE by Schramm, Lawler and Werner. In joint work with Okouknov and Sheffield, made connections between random processes, amoebas, and tropical geometry. Joint work with Goncharov describes integrable systems underlying the dimer model. Recipient of the Loève Prize (2007).