Theory of Computation at Harvard

Overview

Harvard has had a long history of groundbreaking research in the theory of computation (ToC, also known as Theoretical Computer Science). This field addresses the mathematical laws that govern efficient computation, whether by human-made devices or natural phenomena. Today ToC had vastly expanded to touch many problems not just in computer science and engineering, but also pure and applied mathematics, as well as the natural, life and social sciences. Members of the ToC group at Harvard are pursuing both the fundamental questions of computation, as well as its applications to many areas, and are closely collaborating with colleagues across all of these fields.

News & Announcements

Cynthia Dwork awarded the 2026 Japan Prize!

Cynthia Dwork has been awarded the 2026 Japan Prize for her contributions to "leading research for building an ethical digital society, including differential privacy and fairness." The Japan Prize is awarded annually to scientists and engineers from...
Cynthia Dwork, a light-skinned woman with curly auburn hair and glasses, sits at a cafe in front of a bank of windows.

Madhu Sudan wins the FOCS 30-year Test of Time Award!

Congratulations to Madhu Sudan for receiving the FOCS 30-year Test of Time Award for the paper: "Private Information Retrieval" (Authors: Benny Chor, Oded Goldreich, Eyal Kushilevitz, Madhu Sudan)! This remarkable paper introduced a fundamental primitive...
Madhu Sudan. Headshot. Madhu is in front of a blurry outdoor landscape. He has short, curly dark hair and medium-brown skin and glasses. He is smiling broadly.

Salil Vadhan elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences!

Professor Salil Vadhan has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, one of the nation’s most prestigious academic societies. Since 1780, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences has honored excellence and convened leaders from across...
Salil Vadhan. Headshot. Salil is in a sunny indoor location. He is bald, with medium-brown skin. He is facing the viewer and smiling broadly.

Upcoming Seminars & Events