Phyllis Fox facts for kids

Phyllis Ann Fox (born March 13, 1923) is an American mathematician and computer scientist. She made important contributions to early computer programming languages like DYNAMO and LISP. She also helped create a special library for mathematical calculations.

Growing Up and Learning

Phyllis Ann Fox grew up in Colorado. She loved math and went to Wellesley College. In 1944, she earned her first degree in mathematics.

From 1944 to 1946, she worked for General Electric. There, she operated a machine called a differential analyser. This machine helped solve complex math problems.

She then earned a second degree in electrical engineering. This was from the University of Colorado in 1948. After that, she went to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Advanced Studies at MIT

At MIT, she earned a master's degree in electrical engineering in 1949. She continued her studies and received her doctorate (Sc.D.) in mathematics in 1954. Her advisor was Chia-Chiao Lin.

While at MIT, she also worked on the Whirlwind project. This was an early computer project led by Jay Wright Forrester.

Working with Computers

From 1954 to 1958, Phyllis Fox worked at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University. She focused on solving partial differential equations using a computer called the Univac. These equations are used to describe how things change over time and space.

In 1958, she returned to MIT. She joined Jay Forrester's team, which studied how systems work.

Creating Programming Languages

Phyllis Fox became a key part of the team that created the DYNAMO programming language. This language helped people model complex systems.

Later, she worked on the very first LISP interpreter. LISP is another important programming language. She was also the main author of the first LISP manual. This manual helped others learn how to use the language.

In 1963, she moved from MIT to the Newark College of Engineering. She became a full professor there in 1972.

Work at Bell Labs

During her time at Newark College of Engineering, she also worked as a consultant for Bell Labs. In 1973, she joined Bell Labs full-time.

At Bell Labs, she worked on a special library for mathematical calculations called PORT. This library made it easier to use math functions on different computers. She retired from Bell Labs in 1984.

Recognition

In 1986, Phyllis Fox was recognized for her important work. She was named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. This is a high honor for scientists.