The publication of The Mathematics of the Heavens and the Earth in 2009 provided the first comprehensive account in English regarding the origins and early evolution of trigonometry. Glen Robert Van Brummelen, born on May 20, 1965, established a career focused on the intersection of mathematical history, astronomical applications, and pedagogical development within Canadian academic institutions.
Academic Background and Early Career
Van Brummelen completed his doctoral degree at Simon Fraser University in 1993. Following this tenure, he moved to Quest University Canada, serving as a founding faculty member during the institution's formative years.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Contributions to Mathematical History
His research centers on the historical development of trigonometric functions and their utility in ancient astronomy. Beyond his debut monograph on early trigonometry, he authored Heavenly Mathematics: The Forgotten Art of Spherical Trigonometry in 2013. He continued this series with Trigonometry: A Very Short Introduction in 2020 and The Doctrine of Triangles: The History of Modern Trigonometry in 2021. In addition to these monographs, he co-edited the 2005 collection Mathematics and the Historian's Craft: The Kenneth O. May Lectures.
Administrative and Professional Leadership
Van Brummelen holds the position of president within the Canadian Society for History and Philosophy of Mathematics. In 2020, he transitioned to the administration at Trinity Western University, assuming the role of dean of the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences. His teaching methodology earned recognition in 2016 through the Deborah and Franklin Haimo Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics.
International Engagement and Current Work
Since 2004, Van Brummelen has participated in the Mathpath summer program and maintains interest in the evolution of computational models, including his project known as Glensheep. His international presence includes multiple appointments as an Erskine Fellow at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand, having received the fellowship in 2010, 2017, 2019, and 2026.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 May 1965
- Citizenship: Canada
- PhD: Simon Fraser University, 1993
- Primary Field: History of mathematics
- Current Role: Dean, Trinity Western University
- Awards: Deborah and Franklin Haimo Award (2016)
- Notable Fellowship: Erskine Fellow, University of Canterbury
Questions readers ask
What is Glen Van Brummelen's primary area of research?
He specializes in the history of trigonometry and the historical application of mathematical methods to astronomy.
Where does Glen Van Brummelen currently teach?
He is the dean of the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences at Trinity Western University, though he is currently on sabbatical as an Erskine Fellow.
Achievements
- Held posts at Trinity Western University
