Kirschvink wins Feynman Prize

Professor of Geobiology Joseph Kirschvink has been awarded the 2002 Richard P. Feynman Prize for Excellence in Teaching “for his innovative teaching style and outstanding mentorship, which have inspired a generation of Caltech students,” Provost Steve Koonin has announced.

When asked about his reaction, Kirschvink said, “I was stocked and shunned!” and then broke into laughter. Being a Caltech alum (BS ’75, MS ’75), he believes, contributes to his classroom rapport. “I was an undergrad here—I know the capabilities of the students,” he said. In addition, undergrads enjoy the hands-on nature of his lab classes; for many of them, it’s the first real research opportunity they’ve received.

Perhaps more telling, though, as to why his class enrollments keep growing is his view of the learning process. “It’s a chance to have fun with science,” he said. “Science should be enjoyable.” At the same time, he makes sure things remain challenging: “Students like to compete, and so do I.”

Koonin said that the many undergraduate and graduate students who take Kirschvink’s classes are “inspired by his unabashed enthusiasm for the Earth sciences, embraced by his sincerity and dedication to education, and challenged by the depth and breadth of his knowledge.” The courses blend science fundamentals with state-of-the-art research and opportunities for field work in the United States and abroad.

The Feynman Prize is awarded annually to a Caltech professor who “demonstrates unusual ability, creativity, and innovation in undergraduate and graduate classroom and laboratory teaching.”

Nominations for the Feynman Prize can be made by any member of the Caltech community.
The prize, consisting of a cash award of $3,500 and an equivalent raise in the honoree’s salary, is made possible by a gift from Ione and Robert E. Paradise, in appreciation of Richard Feynman’s contributions to excellent teaching.
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