Biography:
Virginia Louise Trimble, born in 1943, is an American astronomer known for her expertise in the structure and evolution of stars and galaxies, as well as the history of astronomy. With an impressive publication record that exceeds 600 works in Astrophysics and numerous other works in the history of various sciences, Trimble has made significant contributions to the field.
One of Trimble’s notable achievements is her annual review of astronomy and astrophysics research, which was published in the Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. Her reviews have provided invaluable summaries and insights at astrophysical conferences, solidifying her reputation as a leading authority in the field.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions to the field, Trimble was elected a Patron of the American Astronomical Society in 2018. This honorary title acknowledges her many years of intellectual, organizational, and financial support to the society, solidifying her stature in the astronomical community.
Trimble’s academic journey began at UCLA, where she attended in 1962. During her time at UCLA, she garnered attention as the subject of a Life article titled Behind a Lovely Face, a 180 I.Q. This article highlighted her remarkable intelligence, setting the stage for an illustrious career in academia.
In 1964, Trimble completed her Bachelor of Arts degree from UCLA before obtaining her Ph.D. from the prestigious California Institute of Technology in 1968. Notably, Trimble was only the second woman allowed access to the Palomar Observatory, reflecting the challenges faced by women in the field during that time.
Following her Ph.D., Trimble taught at Smith College for a year before undertaking two years of postdoctoral work at the Institute of Theoretical Astronomy in Cambridge. In 1971, she joined the faculty of the University of California, Irvine, where she currently serves as a Professor of astronomy. However, her connection to the University of Maryland was also significant, as she married Professor Joseph Weber in 1972, spending half of each academic year as a visiting professor at the institution until his passing in 2000.
Trimble’s contributions extend beyond the academic realm. She served as the vice president of the International Astronomical Union’s Executive Committee from 1994 to 2000, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to the field. Additionally, she held the position of vice president of the American Astronomical Society from 1997 to 2000, further solidifying her influence in the astronomy community.
Awards:
– NAS Award for Scientific Reviewing (1986)
– Klopsteg Memorial Award from the American Association of Physics Teachers (2001)
– George Van Biesbroeck Prize (2010)