Ron Irving

Ron Irving is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Mathematics at the University of Washington (UW). He has held leadership roles including Divisional Dean of Natural Sciences (2002–2006), Interim Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (2006–2008), and Department Chair (2001–2002, 2013–present). His academic journey includes a B.A. in Mathematics and Philosophy from Harvard College (1973) and a Ph.D. in Mathematics from MIT (1977).

Irving's research focuses on ring theory and representation theory of Lie groups and Lie algebras. He authored two influential books: Integers, Polynomials, and Rings: A Course in Algebra and Beyond the Quadratic Formula. He has held NSF postdoctoral fellowships and was a member of the Institute for Advanced Study (1987–1988).

He co-founded the Summer Institute for Mathematics at UW, a program for high school students. He contributed to the creation of the Integrated Sciences undergraduate degree (2010–2013) and oversees Apache Point Observatory via the Astrophysical Research Consortium. He serves on the Burke Museum Association board and supports the Summer Science Program for astrophysics education.

Irving received UW's Distinguished Teaching Award (2001) for his work in mathematics teacher training. His career includes visiting roles at UC San Diego, Aarhus University, and the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute.