Frank Press

Frank Press was a Professor of Geophysics at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) from 1955 to 1965 and Director of the Caltech Seismological Laboratory from 1957 to 1965. He later served as President of the National Academy of Sciences (1981–1993) and Science Advisor to President Jimmy Carter. His research revolutionized seismology through the integration of computer technology and innovative seismograph designs, such as the Press-Ewing seismograph.

Education:

• B.S., City College of New York, 1944
• M.A., Columbia University, 1946
• Ph.D., Columbia University, 1949

Research Interests: Frank Press pioneered studies on free oscillations of the Earth, mantle waves, and the application of seismology to detect nuclear tests. His work during major earthquakes (e.g., 1960 Chile and 1964 Alaska) provided foundational insights into Earth's structure and energy dissipation mechanisms. He emphasized collaborative research with graduate students, treating them as equals in tackling complex geophysical problems.

Awards & Legacy:

• National Medal of Science (1994)
• Key contributor to the development of the Press-Ewing seismograph
• Architect of international scientific diplomacy during the Cold War

Advising & Grants: Advised notable students like David Jackson (UCLA Professor Emeritus). His career bridged academia and policy, leveraging federal resources to advance seismological infrastructure and international treaties.

Labs & Teams: Led the Caltech Seismological Laboratory, fostering a legacy of innovation that influenced successors like Hiroo Kanamori. His office at Caltech became a symbolic hub for geophysical research.