UMass Amherst Alumni Association

Awards & Grants

Distinguished Faculty Awards Recipient

Robert Hallock ’65

Robert Hallock ’65, a University Distinguished Professor, received his bachelor of science degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1965, his PhD from Stanford University in 1969, and joined the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1970 following a postdoctoral year at Stanford. His research efforts have primarily centered on experimental studies of thin films of superfluid liquid helium near the absolute zero of temperature.  One of the world’s leading experts on quantum fluids, his work has resulted in more than two hundred research publications.

Hallock’s interests in teaching have led to the introduction of new courses in Superfluidity and Superconductivity, the Physics of Fluids, introductory physics courses for students interested in Natural Resources and Nursing, and contribution to the development of a new course "Seeing the Light" for art, photography, and other students interested in a basic understanding of the physics of light, which he now teaches.

Hallock’s service to the University of Massachusetts has included eight years as Head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy and one year as Interim Dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. At various times he has been, among other things, the chair of search committees for a Chancellor, a Provost (co-chair) and a Graduate Dean. He has also chaired the University Research Council.  Some of his wider service roles have included chair of the international Quantum Fluids and Solids 1998 conference. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Research Corporation foundation and is currently the United States representative to the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics, serving as secretary for the Commission on Low Temperature Physics Commission, and is the Chair designate for the period 2008-2011.

Hallock is a Fellow of the American Physical Society and has held AFOSR-NRC, A. P. Sloan, J.S. Guggenheim, and Distinguished University Faculty Fellowships. In 1992 he was awarded the Chancellor's Medal for Research at the University of Massachusetts, and in 1998 was designated a University Distinguished Teacher of the Year.  In 2005 he was awarded the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Dean's Leadership Award.