UC Irvine News Brief: Education professor Michael Martinez dies at 55
He conducted research on science and mathematics learning, as well as on the nature and modifiability of intelligence.
Michael Martinez, UCI professor of education, died April 5 at the age of 55. He conducted research on science and mathematics learning, as well as on the nature and modifiability of intelligence. While a faculty member at UCI, Martinez was named a Fulbright Scholar to the University of the South Pacific in Fiji (1994-95). He also served as program director for the National Science Foundation (2001-02), managing its role in the Interagency Education Research Initiative. His diverse career path prior to joining UCI’s faculty included teaching high school science and developing computer-based assessments in science, architecture and engineering at the Educational Testing Service in Princeton, N.J. Martinez is survived by his wife, Stephanie; four daughters; and six grandchildren. “Professor Martinez has been an inspiration and gift to all of us,” said Deborah Vandell, Department of Education professor and chair. “His strength, generous spirit, wisdom and warmth permeated his being. He will be sorely missed.”