Herman, Robert Alfred (1861-1927), mathematician

Herman was born on the 6th of February 1861 in Bath and later attended King Edwards school there. In 1878 he was awarded an entrance scholarship to Trinity College Cambridge. In his time at Cambridge he won the 1st Smith’s prize. He received his degree in 1882; the following year he was awarded a fellowship, and in 1885 he received his M.A.

In 1884 Herman moved to Liverpool, where he took the position of Professor of Mathematics, at the University College. He held this post until 1886, before returning to Cambridge. A year after his return, Herman began lecturing in mathematics at Cambridge and then in 1906, became a University Lecturer. During his time at Cambridge he was also appointed Senior Proctor, 1895, and Junior Proctor, 1900 and 1918.

Herman had a wide knowledge of mathematics, in particular a great skill with hydrodynamical problems. He devoted most of his time to “coaching” for the Mathematical Tripos and was announced in the Senate House, as being one of the last “real” Senior Wranglers.