A conference honoring Professor Robert Vanderbei

Oct. 27, 2023

On October 5-6, the conference “From one star to another: an optimal journey through the interior of the universe” in celebration of Prof. Robert Vanderbei’s distinguished career took place in Princeton. The event featured 9 speakers including ORFE alumna and University of Pennsylvania Professor Katy Milkman ’04, who Prof. Vanderbei had advised for junior independent work. Two Princeton University professors, Richard Gott and Michael Strauss, both in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences, were also speakers. They collaborated with Prof. Vanderbei on the New York Times bestselling young adult book “Welcome to the Universe in 3D”.  Neil deGrasse Tyson, another co-author of the book, gave video remarks. 

Prof. Vanderbei’s career at Princeton University has spanned over three decades including chairing the ORFE department from 2005 – 2012.  He holds numerous appointments in University departments and is a fellow of AMS, SIAM and INFORMS.  He is also the first recipient of the SEAS Excellence in Mentoring Award.  The conference was occasioned by his impending retirement from Princeton next year.