Gunnar Sparr: The Remarkable Mathematician, Entrepreneur and Ambassador for Mathematics

Abstract

The article describes the wide range of activities of Professor Gunnar Sparr, Lund University, in mathematics, engineering mathematics, and in the education of mathematics. Scientifically he has made lasting contributions particularly in interpolation theory and mathematical computer vision. In the latter field, his contributions are further strengthened by his being the founder of a large and internationally recognized research group. The article also describes the impact of Gunnar Sparr on industrial mathematics in the region and Sweden, manifested by numerous collaboration projects, and even the founding of a successful start-up company. It also describes his role in the Swedish educational system, by being the driving force in the forming of a successful MSc-program in Engineering Mathematics, with the mathematical sciences providing the main engineering tools.