Purdue computer scientist wins George Pólya Prize in Applied Combinatorics Note to journalists: A high-resolution photo of Alex Pothen is available via Google Drive. Journalists visiting campus should follow visitor health guidelines. Alex Pothen WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. —The field of applied mathematics enables the ability to solve real-world problems through mathematical models and computational methods. The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) promotes research that will lead to new mathematical and computational techniques for solving challenging problems in science, engineering, industry and society. SIAM has elected Purdue University computer scientist and applied mathematician Alex Pothen to receive its prestigious 2021 George Pólya Prize in Applied Combinatorics.