Beyond sight: how blind mathematicians model the world
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This seminar explores how blind and partially sighted scientists model various aspects of our world through mathematics. It highlights historical pioneers, including Nicholas Saunderson (1682–1739), the earliest known blind scientist and Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge, who developed the first device for performing mathematical computations through touch. It also examines Leonhard Euler (1707–1783), one of the most influential mathematicians of all times, who continued shaping modern mathematics and physics after he began losing his sight at 27.
Building on these historical foundations, I will share my personal experiences as a blind mathematician working on combinatorial optimization for scheduling and timetabling problems. This talk demonstrates that, with the right context and tools, blind and partially sighted individuals can make significant contributions to scientific knowledge, offering unique perspectives that enrich the field.
Event Convenor: Karen Skilling
Link to seminar on Teams: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NjZhZDY2MzUtZjZkMC00YzgyLTlkZDgtNTkwMWY1M2MyY2M0%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22cc95de1b-97f5-4f93-b4ba-fe68b852cf91%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22c61b0510-afe1-42df-bd74-21820c740e45%22%7d
Bio
Dr. Michele Mele is a research fellow in the Department of Engineering at the University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy. He obtained a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Salerno and a PhD. in mathematics and information technology from the University of Naples ‘Federico II’. His research spans Combinatorial Optimization, Mathematics Education, and the History of Science, with a strong focus on accessibility and inclusion.
In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Mele was knighted as a Cavaliere of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, one of Italy’s highest civilian honors. He has authored two books exploring the experiences of blind and partially sighted individuals in science. L’Universo tra le Dita, which won the Oscar Award for Literature at the 2022 Pegasus Literary Awards, chronicles the lives and contributions of blind and partially sighted scientists throughout history. Il richiamo della Strada, winner of the 2025 International Books for Peace Award, tells the story of John Metcalf, an 18th-century blind engineer who built hundreds of miles of roads still in use today, challenging societal perceptions of disability.
Beyond his academic work, Dr. Mele is a musician involved in the folk music community. He writes reviews for Yorkshire Bylines and Bright Young Folk, analyzing the cultural impact of contemporary folk music and highlighting notable artists and albums.