Rabin speaks on cryptography at Rice

Rabin speaks on cryptography at Rice

BY PATRICK MCLAUGHLIN
Rice News staff

Michael Rabin, the Thomas J. Watson Professor of Computer Science at Harvard University, will present a lecture on “Practical, Provably Unbreakable Encryption” as part of the VISEN Center’s Distinguished Lecture Series Aug. 27 at 4 p.m. in McMurtry Hall, Anne and Charles Duncan Hall. A reception will follow in Martel Hall.

In his abstract of the lecture, Rabin wrote:

“Cryptography is an essential tool for secure communication, computer security and safe commercial transactions. Modern cryptography is based for its security on unproven assumptions such as the intractability of factorization. The possible breaking of current encryptions by algorithmic innovations will entail disastrous consequences. The primary suggested method to overcome this problem is use of quantum cryptography. This solution is encumbered by serious practical and cost limitations. We shall describe a realization of provably unbreakable encryption within a network of computers, which is readily implemented.”

Rabin’s contributions to cryptography have been recognized by the ACM Turning Award in Computer Science, the ACM Kanellakis Theory and Practice Award and the Rothschild Prize in Mathematics. He holds honorary degrees from New York University, Haifa University, the University of Bordeaux I and others. Rabin has also been elected as a member or foreign honorary member of several academies, including the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, the French Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

This event is hosted by the VISEN Center in cooperation with the departments of Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering and Statistics.