A pioneering Maths professor from the University of Warwick has been awarded a CBE in the King’s first Birthday Honours list.

Professor Caroline Mary Series FRS, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics, is known for her work in hyperbolic geometry, Kleinian groups, dynamical systems, and her beautiful book Indra’s Pearls.  Her CBE is for services to mathematics.

She joined the University of Warwick as a lecturer in 1978 and later became the first woman in the UK to hold the position of Professor of Mathematics, and only the third woman to become President of the London Mathematical Society (2017-2019).

Commenting on her award, Professor Series said: “I am truly honoured to receive this award. My career has been dedicated to mathematics, and it’s wonderful to be recognised in this way in our new King’s first birthday honours. Over the years I have had the pleasure of working alongside brilliant teachers, colleagues and students who have supported me throughout, and this award is a testament to them, as well as to the research I have been able to deliver. Mathematics is so important nowadays and leads to all sorts of opportunities for a great career. “

Professor Stuart Croft, Vice Chancellor of the University of Warwick, added: “This is a richly deserved honour for a brilliant mathematician, expert and role model to so many people.

“Professor Series is an inspirational figure and we’re incredibly proud of her and what she has achieved.”

In addition to her mathematical research and work to popularise the subject, Professor Series has dedicated herself to improving gender equality as the co-founder of European Women in Mathematics and later of the international Committee for Women in Mathematics.