One of the world's most eminent mathematicians will be speaking tomorrow night at the University of Cambridge as part of the Cambridge Science Festival.

Mathematics is all around us: not just in the technology we use but also embedded in the natural world – from subatomic particles to the surfaces and structures of plants and animals, and on up to the (possibly) infinite spaces of the universe.

In “The Importance of Being Peripheral”, a talk at Lady Mitchell Hall on 14 March, Professor John Barrow will examine surface structures, and ask what happens at the interfaces between things, and why they have the properties that they display.

Using examples that range from black holes in space to shoaling fish and the weightlifting world records, Professor Barrow will explain what happens at boundaries and limits in terms of the mathematics involved.

Professor Barrow's interests include the relationships between science and art, and between philosophy and science.

He is the Director of the Millennium Mathematics Project, an award-winning educational outreach programme, and a Fellow of Clare Hall.

He has written hundreds of scientific articles tackling a wide range of topics – such as the history of the Universe, extra dimensions and the theory of large numbers.

Professor Barrow's approach is best summed up by the title of a recent article: "Life, the Universe, but not quite everything".

His books include "The Book of Nothing" (2002). A polymath, he has written pieces on the subject of infinity for a recent theatrical production in Milan.

Professor Barrow's talk will take place at the Lady Mitchell Hall, on 14 March at 7.30 pm. It will be preceded by a reception from 6-7pm with Professor Barrow at the Cambridge University Press Bookshop on Trinity Street, Cambridge. For a free ticket to the reception plus a reserved seat at the free lecture call 01223 766766.

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