Sergey Brin on Rajeev Motwani
TL;DR
Sergey Brin deeply respected Rajeev Motwani as a brilliant scientist, mentor, and friend who significantly shaped his education and professional path.
Key Points
Wrote in a blog post that Motwani played just as big a role in his professional development as an official advisor would have.
Described Motwani as a brilliant computer scientist who was kind, amicable, and always willing to offer a friendly conversation.
Acknowledged that Motwani’s work and advice inspired Google’s core scientific values, believing a part of him is behind much modern technology.
Summary
Sergey Brin regarded the late computer science professor Rajeev Motwani as an exceptionally significant figure in his life, stating that Motwani played a major role in his research, education, and professional development, even though he was not officially his advisor. Brin specifically highlighted Motwani’s brilliance as a computer scientist, his kind and amicable nature, and his constant availability for an encouraging conversation. He noted that Motwani’s door was always open for a friendly smile regardless of the work or life issues Brin was facing at the time.
The lasting impact of Motwani, who passed away in 2009, is recognized by Brin as foundational to Google’s core scientific values. Brin observed that nearly any modern technology one uses has a piece of Motwani’s work or inspiration behind it. This respect is further cemented by Google establishing the Motwani Professorship in Computer Science at Stanford with a significant gift following his death, honoring his influence on the Google founders and the field.
Key Quotes
Today, whenever you use a piece of technology, there is a good chance a little bit of Rajeev Motwani is behind it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sergey Brin stated that Rajeev Motwani was instrumental in his research, education, and professional development, despite not being his official advisor. He remembered Motwani as a kind, amicable person whose office door was always open for a friendly conversation.
No, Sergey Brin explicitly stated that Rajeev Motwani was not officially his advisor at Stanford. However, Brin emphasized that Motwani played an equally significant role in his research and professional growth.
Sergey Brin honored his mentor by writing a tribute on his blog, highlighting his immense influence on both Brin and Google's scientific approach. Furthermore, Google contributed to the Motwani Professorship in Computer Science at Stanford to commemorate his legacy.