Physicist alive today who you believe deserve a nobel prize

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on physicists who are considered deserving of a Nobel Prize but have not yet received one. Key figures mentioned include Stephen Hawking, whose theoretical contributions remain unproven experimentally; Freeman Dyson, recognized for his common-sense insights; and Lene Hau, acclaimed for her groundbreaking work in slowing and stopping light in quantum media. Participants express interest in Hau's research, sharing links to her publications for further reading. Edward Witten is also highlighted, with suggestions that he could be a candidate for a posthumous prize if string theory is validated in the future. Other names mentioned include Sir Michael Berry and Laurens Molenkamp, noted for their contributions to physics and topological insulators, respectively. The conversation reflects a blend of admiration for these scientists and speculation about their potential recognition.
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Are there any physicist alive today who you believe should have a nobel prize already?
 
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Stephan Hawking.
 
neyzenyelda said:
Stephan Hawking.

Why? His ideas have never been proven experimentally.
 
Freeman Dyson. For common sense.
 
Is there some where I can read more on Lene Hau's work? I'm trying to google but not coming up with something that seems detailed.
 
encorp said:
Is there some where I can read more on Lene Hau's work? I'm trying to google but not coming up with something that seems detailed.

From her publications page, she shows most of her major papers:

http://www.deas.harvard.edu/haulab/publications/HauPublications_All.htm

The actual papers are there as pdfs. Also, the following she wrote for lay audience, describes some of the work she is best known for:

http://learner.org/courses/physics/unit/pdfs/unit7.pdf
 
Edward Whitten
 
  • #10
First: Sir Michael Berry, maybe together with Aharonov.

Second, although I am not sure he really earns it, I am quite sure Laurens Molenkamp will become a candidate in the long run for his stuff on topological insulators.
 
  • #11
Do you have to be human to win? I nominate Ed Whitten. Not so much for physics, but for peace. Most people I think who attempt to read his work find peace.
 
  • #12
encorp said:
Is there some where I can read more on Lene Hau's work? I'm trying to google but not coming up with something that seems detailed.
We've had several threads about her work a couple of years ago.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5uF1qx7mT0&feature=related



http://www.news.harvard.edu/gazette/2001/01.24/01-stoplight.html
 
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  • #13
Edward Witten may be the first posthumous nobel prize winner, if string theory ends up being experimentally verified in another century or so.
 
  • #14
Didn't Ed Whitten say to find strings look up into the sky for a primordial string? (paraphraseish)

Ed Whitten is still a young man. Hope he takes the prize.
 
  • #15
Jeff Bridges
 
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