Arto Salomaa, Academician of Science, dies at 90

Academician of Science Arto Salomaa (b. 1934), a pioneer in the mathematical theory of computer science, has passed away. During his long and distinguished research career, Salomaa engaged in scientific work based on mathematical logic, focusing on formal languages and automata theory.

His interest in the mathematical challenges offered by computers was sparked in the 1960s. As regards the mathematical theory of computer science, he concentrated on creating theories on areas such as cryptography and DNA computing. He was one of the foremost developers of theories on automata and formal languages.

Salomaa distinguished himself in many ways, not only as an active innovator of new research areas that had a profound impact on the advancement of data processing, but also as an excellent instructor for early-career researchers and as a writer of highly esteemed monographs. His scientific achievements gained wide acclaim in the international scientific community.

Salomaa served as Professor of Mathematics at the University of Turku in 1966–1998 and had funding from the Research Council of Finland (then known as the Academy of Finland) as a Research Professor in 1975–1980 and as an Academy Professor in 1989–1999. He also held visiting professorships at several foreign universities. He had honorary doctorates from seven foreign universities and two Finnish universities.

In 2001, Salomaa received the honorary title of Academician of Science, the highest honour that can be bestowed on any individual scientist in Finland.