Dr. Richard M. Milberg, who led the School of Chemical Sciences Mass Spectrometry Laboratory for more than 20 years, passed away on May 6, 2026.
His leadership of the SCS Mass Spectrometry Laboratory left a significant mark on the field and helped countless researchers with his expertise, according to current administrators, including SCS Director Paul Kenis, Director of Operations and Administration Ken Wooldridge, and Associate Director of Operations and Administration Chad Stevens, who shared an announcement shortly after his passing.
Richard was the cornerstone of the Mass Spectrometry Lab from 1976 until his retirement in 2001 and continued to serve the Mass Spec lab in various roles until 2006. He was known for his technical brilliance and was often cited by those who worked under him as "the smartest person I know.”
He had absolute dedication to the user community and maintained the lab's instruments with a pioneer’s spirit, often scavenging parts to ensure that the "well-hidden but well-known" facility in the Noyes Lab basement remained a world-class resource.
Richard’s presence at SCS was complemented by that of his wife, Roberta Milberg, who was a legendary force in our administrative offices for many years. Together, they represented the very best of the SCS spirit, combining the rigorous scientific support with a deep commitment to the people within our research facility.
Beyond the lab, Richard was a graduate of the University of Miami and earned his PhD in 1972 at UC Berkeley under the mentorship of Charles W. Koch. A devoted husband of 57 years, he was known for an "engaging manner" and a natural talent for troubleshooting left a lasting impression on everyone he met.