معرفی
John Rickert is a Professor of Mathematics at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, specializing in number theory and Diophantine equations. He holds a PhD from the University of Michigan and BS degrees from the University of Wisconsin. His research focuses on topics such as partition functions, Pell-type equations, and simultaneous rational approximations. Beyond academia, he is renowned for applying mathematics to baseball, including advising on the design of Safeco Field’s retractable roof. Rickert is deeply involved in mathematics education, coordinating competitions like the Rose-Hulman High School Math Contest and serving as chief judge for MATHCOUNTS. He has received prestigious awards, including the Samuel Greitzer Distinguished Coach Award for his mentorship in ARML competitions.
Education
- PhD in Mathematics, University of Michigan, 1990
- BS in Astronomy-Physics and Mathematics, University of Wisconsin, 1984
Research Interests
His work spans number theory, Diophantine approximations, and applications of mathematics in sports analytics. Recent projects include studies on composite number generation via digit appending and graph theory analysis of hypercube substructures.
Awards
- George Polya Award, Mathematical Association of America
- Samuel L. Greitzer Distinguished Coach Award, American Regions Math League (2016)
Teaching & Outreach
Rickert teaches courses such as MA371 (Linear Algebra) and MA381 (Probability & Statistics), and mentors students at MIT’s Research Science Institute. He actively promotes math competitions, organizing events like the Alfred R. Schmidt Freshman Mathematics Competition and Indiana’s ARML team.
