How Did Robert Pound Impact Physics Without a Ph.D.?

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The discussion highlights the contributions of a notable scientist who, alongside Glen Rebka, first observed gravitational redshift in a laboratory setting and played a key role in the discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Despite a long tenure at Harvard, including serving as the physics department chairman, he notably never obtained a Ph.D. The conversation reflects admiration for his engaging personality and humor, with mentions of a unit of measure and a cake named after him, underscoring his legacy. The tone remains respectful and appreciative, celebrating his scientific achievements and personal charm.
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He and Glen Rebka first observed the gravitational redshift of light in a terrestrial laboratory. He was also involved in the discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance. Amazingly, although he was on the Harvard faculty for many years and even served as physics department chairman, he never earned a Ph.D.!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/20/us/20pound.html
 
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Wow, interesting.
 
Thanks JT for letting us know this. I dearly love this kind of scientist. RIP
 
He had a great sense of humor and was an engaging speaker late into life. His slide show on his days at the Rad Lab and subsequent discovery of NMR with Purcell right after the war were spellbinding.
 
jtbell said:
He and Glen Rebka first observed the gravitational redshift of light in a terrestrial laboratory. He was also involved in the discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance. Amazingly, although he was on the Harvard faculty for many years and even served as physics department chairman, he never earned a Ph.D.!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/20/us/20pound.html

Fascinating.
 
Amazing, he even had a unit of measure and a cake named after him.
 
Last edited:
And a unit of currency!
 
"Did you try whacking it?"

Thanks for posting that jt, very interesting man.
 
Evo said:
"Did you try whacking it?"

Thanks for posting that jt, very interesting man.

Perhaps we should change that to "Did you try Pounding it" in his honour.
 

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