A Computer-Assisted Proof Solves the 'Packing Coloring' Problem

As an undergraduate at the University of Chile, Bernardo Subercaseaux took a dim view of using computers to do math. It seemed antithetical to real intellectual discovery. "There's some instinct or gut reaction against using computers to solve your problems, like it goes against the ideal beauty or elegance of a fantastic argument," he said. Original story reprinted with permission from Quanta Magazine, an editorially independent publication of the Simons Foundation whose mission is to enhance public understanding of science by covering research developments and trends in mathematics and the physical and life sciences. But then in 2020 Subercaseaux fell in love, and as often happens, his priorities changed.