# Robert R. Korfhage

> American computer scientist (1930–1998)

**Wikidata**: [Q7349104](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7349104)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_R._Korfhage)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/robert-r-korfhage

## Summary
Robert R. Korfhage was an American computer scientist (1930–1998) known for his contributions to information retrieval and computer science education. He served as a professor at institutions like Purdue University and Southern Methodist University, mentoring notable students such as Norman E. Gibbs and Walter Scott Brainerd.

## Biography
- **Born**: December 2, 1930, in Fulton
- **Nationality**: United States
- **Education**: Ph.D. from the University of Michigan
- **Known for**: Advancements in information retrieval and computer science education
- **Employer(s)**: Purdue University, University of Pittsburgh, Southern Methodist University
- **Field(s)**: Computer science, engineering

## Contributions
Robert R. Korfhage made significant contributions to the field of computer science, particularly in information retrieval. His work laid foundational principles for modern search algorithms and database systems. As an educator, he mentored influential computer scientists, including Norman E. Gibbs and Walter Scott Brainerd, who went on to make their own mark in the field. Korfhage's research and teaching helped shape the development of computer science as an academic discipline, influencing both theoretical and applied aspects of the field.

## FAQs
### Q: Who was Robert R. Korfhage?
A: Robert R. Korfhage was an American computer scientist known for his work in information retrieval and his role as an educator at institutions like Purdue University and Southern Methodist University.

### Q: What were Robert R. Korfhage's main contributions?
A: Korfhage contributed to the development of information retrieval systems and mentored influential computer scientists, including Norman E. Gibbs and Walter Scott Brainerd.

### Q: Where did Robert R. Korfhage teach?
A: He taught at Purdue University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Southern Methodist University.

### Q: Who were Robert R. Korfhage's notable students?
A: His notable students include Norman E. Gibbs and Walter Scott Brainerd, both of whom became prominent computer scientists.

### Q: When did Robert R. Korfhage pass away?
A: Robert R. Korfhage passed away on November 20, 1998.

## Why They Matter
Robert R. Korfhage's work in information retrieval and computer science education had a lasting impact on the field. His research helped shape the theoretical and practical foundations of modern search and database systems. As an educator, he played a crucial role in training the next generation of computer scientists, many of whom went on to make significant contributions themselves. Without his work, the development of information retrieval systems and computer science education might have progressed more slowly, delaying advancements in these areas.

## Notable For
- Pioneering work in information retrieval
- Mentoring influential computer scientists like Norman E. Gibbs and Walter Scott Brainerd
- Serving as a professor at prestigious institutions such as Purdue University and Southern Methodist University
- Contributions to the development of computer science as an academic discipline

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Robert R. Korfhage was born on December 2, 1930, in Fulton. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, where he studied under Bernard Galler, a notable mathematician and computer scientist.

### Career and Contributions
Korfhage's career spanned several prestigious institutions, including Purdue University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Southern Methodist University. His work in information retrieval laid the groundwork for modern search algorithms and database systems. As an educator, he mentored several influential computer scientists, including Norman E. Gibbs and Walter Scott Brainerd, who earned their Ph.D.s under his guidance.

### Legacy
Korfhage's contributions to computer science, particularly in information retrieval, have had a lasting impact on the field. His research and teaching helped shape the development of computer science as an academic discipline, influencing both theoretical and applied aspects of the field. His mentorship of future computer scientists ensured that his influence extended beyond his own work, contributing to the growth and advancement of the field.

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## References

1. Mathematics Genealogy Project
2. International Standard Name Identifier
3. [Source](https://viaf.org/viaf/data/viaf-20230206-links.txt.gz)
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File