About Cornell CS Theory Club
The Cornell CS Theory Club is a student organization at Cornell University dedicated to building a vibrant, supportive undergraduate community around theoretical computer science (TCS). Whether you're deeply entrenched in complexity theory research, curious about the limits of computation, or simply love elegant mathematical proofs, our club is a space to explore ideas beyond the standard curriculum.
We hold weekly meetings featuring talks by professors, graduate students, and undergraduates. Topics range from presenting cutting-edge research and motivating open problems in TCS to sharing personal stories and advice for graduate school.
Meeting Format
Our weekly meetings take place on Wednesdays at 5:00 PM in CIS 373 (Bill & Melinda Gates Hall):
- 5:00 - 5:15 PM: Reception & Social: Free pizza, refreshments, and getting to know everyone.
- 5:15 - 6:15 PM: Research Seminar & Q&A: A presentation on a theoretical computer science problem, algorithm, or theorem followed by open Q&A.
Topics We Explore
TCS explores the mathematical foundations of computation. Some of the core domains we explore include:
Algorithms
Design and analysis of efficient sequential, parallel, and approximation algorithms.
Complexity Theory
Understanding computational hardness, reductions, circuit complexity, and structural frontiers.
Cryptography
Foundations of secure computation, zero knowledge, and post-quantum lattice-based systems.
Quantum Computing
Power and limits of quantum computation, query complexity, and entanglement.
Learning Theory
Statistical and computational foundations of generalization, sample complexity, and privacy.
Automata & Logic
Formal grammars, state machines, decidability, and model checking.
Frequently Asked Questions & Prerequisites
Do I need advanced mathematical experience to attend?
We warmly welcome anyone interested—undergraduate or graduate—from any major or background. Because TCS naturally requires a certain degree of mathematical maturity, we expect familiarity with proofs and probability at the level of CS 2800 (Discrete Structures), and recommend familiarity with algorithms at the level of CS 4820 (Analysis of Algorithms). Our speakers intentionally prepare talks with intuitive motivations to make cutting-edge concepts accessible.
Can I give a talk at the CS Theory Club?
Yes! We encourage undergraduate and graduate students working on research, fascinating class projects, or paper surveys to present. If you have an idea, feel free to speak with any of the club officers at our weekly meetings.
Do you serve food?
Yes! We provide free pizza and snacks during our 5:00 PM reception before every talk.
How to Join the Club
There is no formal application process! All you have to do is show up to our weekly meetings and join our email list.
To join the Lyris mailing list:
Send an email from your Cornell email address to
CS-THEORY-UGRAD-L-REQUEST@cornell.edu
with the exact subject line:
join
Leave the body of the email blank. For more details, consult the Cornell IT Lyris E-List Documentation.