Thomas Nikolaus is a professor in the University of Münster, working in algebraic K-theory and homotopy theory. In this interview Thomas talks, among other things, about non-standard approaches to math seminars, the importance of branching out and asking questions, and the lack of feedback in the mathematical community.
0:00 teaser
0:50 changing research areas
3:22 learning vs working
5:44 teaching advice
6:53 branching out
8:15 advising PhD students
10:09 writing skills
11:31 lack of feedback in the math community
15:06 the famous Bonn seminar
17:15 the feeling of not good enough in math
19:55 interesting jobs outside academia
21:25 Thomas interviews me… oops!
27:10 the right definition of K-theory
29:50 taking care of your research group
31:15 seminar where speakers aren’t allowed to prepare
33:50 asking questions at talks
36:31 choosing whom to hire
38:28 getting over math frustration
39:35 don’t be afraid
