Mercer Times

William "Bill" Browder, an emeritus professor of mathematics and a significant figure in the field, passed away in early February at the age of 91. His death occurred at home while he was contemplating a new mathematical idea, with his wife by his side.

Elliott Lieb, Princeton's Eugene Higgins Professor of Physics, Emeritus, and an emeritus professor of mathematical physics, remarked on Browder's impact: “Bill Browder was a kind and generous man who not only contributed greatly to the mathematics literature but also greatly to the societal aspects of the mathematics community, as president of the American Mathematical Society and in many other ways.”

Browder was recognized for his work as a topologist and as one of the pioneers of surgery theory. This theory integrates methods from various branches of topology to aid in classifying manifolds. His contributions were celebrated by colleagues upon his retirement in 2012.

His academic journey began at Princeton University in 1954 after completing undergraduate studies at MIT. He earned his Ph.D. from Princeton in 1958 and taught at both the University of Rochester and Cornell University before returning to Princeton. In February 1964, he became a full professor there—the youngest ever appointed in Princeton’s mathematics department history—and served for over fifty years.

Alejandro Adem, a former student now teaching at the University of British Columbia, reflected on Browder's influence: “Bill was an influential mathematician, a wonderful person, and a dear friend... What most impressed me about him was that he was kind, approachable and had a great sense of humor.”

Born in New York City in 1934 to Raissa and Earl Browder—both lawyers—he grew up with two brothers who also pursued advanced studies at prestigious institutions like MIT and Princeton.

During his time at Princeton spanning six decades, Browder advised numerous students who achieved notable success in their careers. Dennis Sullivan highlighted this mentorship: “Bill was an adviser par excellence... He showed us how to classify closed manifolds in terms of homotopy invariants from algebraic topology.”

In addition to his academic roles, Browder chaired the Office of Mathematical Sciences for the National Research Council during the late 1970s. His efforts led to increased funding for mathematical research following recommendations from what became known as the David Committee report.

Peter Ozsváth shared personal memories: “With his characteristic laid-back enthusiasm... Bill encouraged me to study four-dimensional topology.” Beyond academia, music played an essential role in their relationship; Ozsváth recalled chamber music sessions organized by Browder.

Browder received numerous accolades throughout his career including memberships with prestigious academies such as the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Alongside editorial duties for Annals of Mathematics (1969-1981), he served as president for both American Mathematical Society (1989-1990) where he later followed by brother Felix’s presidency (1999-2000).

He is survived by Lisbeth Moeller—his wife—and children Risa Dan Emil along with several nieces nephews including namesake Bill Browder; predeceased are brothers Felix Andrew noted mathematicians themselves.

Comments can be shared via memorial page honoring life legacy William "Bill" Browder.