The world of computer science mourns the passing of Professor Luca Trevisan, a leading researcher and influential figure in the field of theoretical computer science. Dr. Trevisan passed away on June 19, 2024, at the age of 52.

Dr. Trevisan’s contributions spanned a vast range of topics within theoretical computer science, including randomness, cryptography, probabilistically checkable proofs, approximation algorithms, property testing, spectral graph theory, and sublinear algorithms. His research not only yielded groundbreaking results but also paved the way for future advancements in these critical areas.

A Passion for Theoretical Foundations

Born in Italy in 1971, Dr. Trevisan developed a deep fascination with the theoretical underpinnings of computer science early in his life. He pursued his academic journey at the highest level, eventually earning a professorship at Bocconi University in Milan.

Dr. Trevisan’s research focused on the fundamental principles that govern the power and limitations of computers. His work on randomness, for instance, explored ways to generate unpredictable sequences of numbers, a crucial component in areas like cryptography and secure communication.

Another significant area of his research was cryptography, the science of secure communication. Dr. Trevisan’s contributions helped develop methods for protecting information from unauthorized access, ensuring the privacy and integrity of data in our increasingly digital world.

Beyond Groundbreaking Research: A Passionate Advocate

Dr. Trevisan’s impact extended far beyond his groundbreaking research. He was a passionate advocate for inclusivity in the field of computer science. In 2000, he came out as gay, and in 2012, he spearheaded a project to collect and share the experiences of LGBTQ+ computer scientists within the research community. This initiative aimed to raise awareness of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the field and promote a more welcoming and diverse environment.

Dr. Trevisan’s dedication to education was equally remarkable. He was known for his clear and engaging teaching style, inspiring countless students with his enthusiasm for theoretical computer science. His blog, aptly named “in theory,” served as a valuable resource for students and researchers alike, providing insightful discussions on complex topics.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Dr. Trevisan’s passing leaves a significant void in the computer science community. His research continues to influence the field, shaping the development of new technologies and shaping our understanding of computing power. But his legacy extends beyond his academic achievements. Dr. Trevisan’s advocacy for inclusivity and his dedication to fostering a diverse and welcoming environment within computer science serves as a lasting inspiration for future generations of researchers.

Tributes Pour In

The news of Dr. Trevisan’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief and admiration from colleagues and students around the world. Many have expressed their profound respect for his exceptional intellect, his dedication to inclusivity, and his passion for the field of computer science.

“Luca was a great man, both in terms of academics and humanity, and was much loved by both colleagues and students,” said Andrea Sironi, President of Bocconi University. “Bocconi is now suffering a great loss. It was an honor and a privilege to have him here, even if only for a few years.”

Fellow computer scientist Scott Aaronson, who knew Dr. Trevisan for over 25 years, described him as an intellectual and personal hero. “His work on pseudorandomness, complexity, cryptography and algorithms has been a strong influence on my work,” Aaronson wrote in a blog post. “Whenever I wanted to understand a new topic, often the best source would be an exposition by Luca.”

Dr. Trevisan’s absence will be deeply felt by the computer science community. However, his legacy of groundbreaking research, unwavering dedication to inclusivity, and infectious passion for the field will continue to inspire future generations of computer scientists.

In Memory of Luca Trevisan

As we remember Dr. Trevisan’s remarkable life and contributions, let us strive to carry forward his legacy. We can honor his memory by supporting efforts to promote inclusivity in computer science, by fostering a welcoming environment for all, and by continuing to explore the fascinating world of theoretical computer science with the same level of curiosity and passion that Dr. Trevisan embodied.