Ivan Charles Sterling

Ivan Charles Sterling is a Professor of Mathematics at St. Mary's College of Maryland, where he has been teaching since July 2000. He earned his B.A. from the University of California at Santa Cruz in 1980 and his Ph.D. from the University of California at Berkeley in 1985. His academic career includes positions as Researcher at Max-Planck-Institut für Mathematik in Bonn (1985-1986), Visiting Lecturer at UC Santa Cruz (1986-1987), Assistant Professor at Technische Universität Berlin (1987-1991) and the University of Toledo (1991-1995), and Associate Professor at the University of Toledo (1995-2000).

Professor Sterling's research focuses on differential geometry with particular emphasis on pseudospherical surfaces, minimal surfaces, and discrete curves. His work bridges theoretical mathematics with practical applications in 3D printing and geometric visualization. His teaching portfolio includes a wide range of courses from Calculus sequences to specialized topics like '3D Printing Galaxies' and '3D Printing Constant Negative Curvature Fabrics.'

His publication history reveals a clear evolution from classical differential geometry toward more applied areas involving computational methods and 3D fabrication. Starting with theoretical work on minimal surfaces and pseudospherical surfaces in the 1980s-1990s, his research progressed through discrete geometry topics in the 2000s-2010s, culminating in his recent work on integrating 3D printing technology with mathematics education. This trajectory demonstrates how Sterling has successfully connected pure mathematical theory with tangible applications in visualization and digital fabrication.

At St. Mary's College of Maryland, Sterling maintains an office in Schaefer Hall, Room 177, where he continues to teach undergraduate mathematics courses and conduct research that combines geometric theory with modern fabrication techniques. His work exemplifies how theoretical mathematics can find practical expression through emerging technologies.