Renowned mathematician, investor, and philanthropist Jim Simons passed away at the age of 86 in New York City on May 10, 2024. The Simons Foundation, co-founded by Jim and his wife Marilyn Simons, announced his death with deep sorrow.
Jim Simons, known affectionately as Jim, was a highly regarded figure in the field of mathematics and quantitative investing. Alongside his wife, he dedicated billions of dollars to numerous philanthropic causes, with a particular focus on supporting research and education in mathematics and science. The couple established the Simons Foundation in 1994, which has since been instrumental in advancing research in various scientific disciplines globally.
Throughout his life, Jim remained actively involved in the work of the foundation, driven by his unwavering passion for mathematics and basic sciences. His commitment to enhancing support for these fields in the United States was evident in his sponsorship of projects that might not have received funding otherwise.
Over the past three decades, the Simons Foundation’s initiatives have contributed significantly to breakthroughs in areas such as autism, the universe’s origins, cellular biology, and computational science. Jim and Marilyn’s philanthropic endeavors continue to nurture budding mathematicians and scientists in educational institutions worldwide.
Jim Simons often reflected on the evolution of his professional journey, transitioning from a mathematician to an investor and ultimately a philanthropist. His tenure as the head of the mathematics department at Stony Brook University yielded groundbreaking discoveries that have had a lasting impact on fields like string theory, topology, and condensed matter physics.
In 1978, Jim founded Renaissance Technologies, a hedge fund renowned for its innovative approach to quantitative trading, which became one of the most profitable investment firms in history. Subsequently, he redirected his focus towards creating a positive global impact through various philanthropic ventures, including the Simons Foundation International and Math for America.
David Spergel, the President of the Simons Foundation, lauded Jim’s exceptional leadership, emphasizing his transformative contributions to mathematics and the establishment of a world-class investment enterprise. Together with Marilyn Simons, the current Chair of the Simons Foundation board, Jim laid the foundation for an organization that has significantly influenced the realms of mathematics, basic science, and autism research.
Jim Simons’ legacy as a visionary leader and benefactor will endure through the perpetual mission of the Simons Foundation, ensuring that his philanthropic vision continues to shape the future of scientific research and education.
