Physicist alive today who you believe deserve a nobel prize

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SUMMARY

Current discussions highlight several physicists who deserve a Nobel Prize, notably Lene Hau for her groundbreaking work in slowing and stopping light in quantum media. Despite the lack of experimental proof for some of their theories, figures like Stephen Hawking and Edward Witten are also mentioned as deserving candidates. The conversation emphasizes the significance of their contributions to theoretical physics and the potential for future recognition. Resources for further reading on Lene Hau's work are provided, including her publications and accessible summaries.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum media and light manipulation
  • Familiarity with theoretical physics concepts, particularly string theory
  • Knowledge of notable physicists and their contributions
  • Ability to access and interpret scientific publications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Lene Hau's publications on slowing light in quantum media
  • Explore the implications of string theory as discussed by Edward Witten
  • Investigate the work of Laurens Molenkamp on topological insulators
  • Review historical Nobel Prize winners in Physics for context on deserving candidates
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of physics, and science enthusiasts interested in contemporary contributions to the field and potential Nobel Prize candidates.

xdrgnh
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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
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #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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