FB Pixel Skip to Main Content
Robert A. Cohen

Robert A. Cohen

Professor of Mathematics

Education

Ph.D., University of Colorado Boulder, Mathematics, 2004
B.A., Humboldt State University, Mathematics, 1996

Biography

How did you discover Western?

When I was a graduate student in Boulder, I had a friend who lived in Crested Butte. I used to drive up when there was free skiing at the end of the season, and I remember passing by Western and thinking, “I wonder if they’ll be hiring when I finish my degree?” Thankfully, they were.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

When I was in graduate school, I got to ski with a Fields Medalist, which is roughly equivalent to skiing with a Nobel Prize winner. In between runs, we discussed our research on the chairlifts, which was an incredible experience.

Also, I received an NSF grant to do research for a year with Western students. The students got paid well for their work and proudly represented Western with impressive presentations at a national conference at BYU.

Finally, I am thrilled to have been nominated for both regional and national teaching awards by my colleagues at Western.

What most excites you about your field?

There is so much to learn about mathematics. I could spend several lifetimes studying the subject and still not learn it all.

Since I have been at Western, I have learned about many areas of mathematics that were new to me. This learning continues, and it is great fun to take on new, exciting topics with my students. For example, a few years ago I learned how to design fractal images, and had so much fun creating them that I felt obliged to share my excitement. Since that time I have taught the technique to many folks, including middle-school math campers, Western Honors students and Western Math students.

I am excited to see where my mathematical journeys will take me next and to share the experiences with others.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

Like many, I enjoy the endless recreation opportunities this valley has to offer. Every season provides recreational offerings that give you a chance to experience the mountains in a variety of ways. Also, there is a wonderfully supportive community in this valley, and it is a great place to raise kids.

Professional Interests

Functional Analysis, Operator Algebras, Classical Analysis

Take the Next Step

Apply to
Western
Students pose for a photo on top of Mount Crested Butte in the summer

Apply to
Western

We understand that applying to a university can be daunting, which is why we make our admission process as simple and straightforward as possible. Learn more about applying to your program of choice at Western.

Visit
Western
Colorado Hall with the Palisades in the background on a bluebird day.

Visit
Western

The best way to find out what makes Western such a special place is to experience it for yourself. Our student-led tours give you an insider’s perspective on everything from academics to student life.

Alumni
Community
A group of four alumni look at an old photo that one of them picked up from a selection of photos that were printed and laid out for the Ski Team Social event.

Alumni
Community

We keep the Mountaineer spirit going strong within our alumni community. Whether getting together with friends at an annual event, making a donation or mentoring a student, graduates continue to play an important role in the Western community.

Request
Information
A few students pose for a photo behind the Multicultural Center table at the Admitted Student Day Club Fair.

Request
Information

Want to discover more about Western? Request information today to get in touch with the admissions team.