W. Barclay Kamb

- KAMB- W. Barclay Kamb 1931 - 2011 W. Barclay Kamb, the Barbara and Stanley R. Rawn, Jr., Professor of Geology and Geophysics, Emeritus at Caltech, died at his home on April 21. He was 79. Kamb was a man of many interests and deep intellect. He contributed to many areas of science, but he is best known as one of the world's leading glaciologists, having enhanced our understanding of the crystal structure of ice and the dynamics of glacier movement. His work provided critical insights into glacier flow, and in recognition of his extensive research on Antarctic ice streams, the Kamb Ice Stream was named in his honor in 2003. Born in San Jose, Kamb began his long and distinguished Caltech career in 1948 as an undergraduate at the age of 16. He graduated with a degree in physics in 1952 and obtained his PhD in geology in 1956. Hired upon graduation as assistant professor of geology, Kamb rose through the ranks to become a full professor in 1962 and Rawn Professor in 1990. He served as chair of the Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences for 11 years, from 1972 to 1983, and as vice president and provost of the Institute from 1987 to 1989. The recipient of many honors and distinctions, Kamb was both a Guggenheim Fellow and an Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellow during his tenure at Caltech. He was also a fellow of the Geological Society of America and the American Geophysical Union. Kamb received the Mineralogical Society of America Award and was a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Sciences. Kamb is survived by his wife, Linda Pauling Kamb; his brother, Peter Ray, and his sister, Barbara Marinacci; his sons Barclay J., Alexander (Sasha), Anthony, and Linus; and nine grandchildren. Donations made in Kamb's honor can be sent to the Sierra Club's Angeles Chapter at 3435 Wilshire Blvd #320, Los Angeles, CA 90010-1904 (or call 213-387-4287 for more information).