UC Santa Cruz professor Bruce Bridgeman killed in Taiwan

A University of California at Santa Cruz professor known for his research on neuroscience was struck and killed by a bus in Taiwan earlier this month while on a speaking tour in Asia, university officials said this week.

UC Santa Cruz professor emeritus of psychology Bruce Bridgeman was hit by a bus in Taipei, Taiwan, while crossing a multi-lane intersection on July 10, the same day he was scheduled to speak at the Medical University of Taiwan, according to an obituary his family shared with the university.

Bridgeman was with his wife, Dr. Diane Bridgeman, who was also giving talks on the tour through Asia.

Bruce Bridgeman joined UC Santa Cruz in 1973 and remained involved with the school throughout his career, including having several active experiments running in his lab at the time of his death.

“Bruce remained a vital member of the psychology department,” department chair Campbell Leaper said in a statement.

His research focused on spatial orientation by vision and perception/action interactions as well as the functions and neural basis of consciousness, according to the obituary.

He also strongly advocated his wife’s work, including her clinical psychology practice, and her efforts with various local organizations, including the Monterey Bay Psychological Association.

Bridgeman earned his undergraduate psychology degree at Cornell University and received his doctorate degree from Stanford University.

A memorial event celebrating his life will be held in October, according to the obituary. Information about a fund established in his honor will also be provided at a later date.

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