Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics

In summary, Jack Smith, a professor emeritus of physics at SUNY Stony Brook, passed away on Sunday. He joined the Institute for Theoretical Physics in 1967 and was known for his contributions to the contemporary Standard Model, particularly his 2003 calculation of the Higgs boson cross section. After 37 years on the faculty, he retired in 2006 but remained active as Professor Emeritus. He was also a dedicated teacher and coworker, and his doctoral students have gone on to succeed in various fields. Jack will be remembered and missed by colleagues and friends at Stony Brook and in the global scientific community.
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Jack Smith, professor emeritus of physics at SUNY Stony Brook passed away Sunday.

His colleague George Sterman writes "
Jack Smith joined the Institute for Theoretical Physics at Stony Brook as research associate in the Institute’s second year, 1967, and he subsequently joined the faculty of the Institute and Department of Physics and Astronomy. Jack was a master of elementary particle theory, whose often-legendary calculations in perturbative quantum chromodynamics contributed mightily toward establishing the contemporary Standard Model, including a landmark 2003 calculation of the Higgs boson cross section. In 2005, he received the President’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities. After thirty seven years on the faculty, Jack retired in 2006, but kept active as Professor Emeritus. In 2013, he attended the ceremony at which his doctoral advisor, Peter Higgs received the Nobel Prize in Physics. Last September he joined us for the fiftieth anniversary of the C.N. Yang Institute for Theoretical Physics, in whose development he played such an important role. Although his health declined in recent years, even into his last months he was working with former student Eric Laenen and with Bernard de Wit, both of NIKHEF in Amsterdam, on a new edition of his text in quantum field theory.

Jack was known as a dedicated teacher and a generous coworker, whom we were proud to count as a colleague. His doctoral students have themselves succeeded in research, education, and in fields beyond. Jack will be missed by his friends at Stony Brook, and across the globe by many in the community of science."

Jack was a theoretical physicist of the most un-glamorous sort. His specialty was precision calculations, and he was always trying to improve these calculations by challenging them with data. In many cases, his calculations were superseded after he retired, but they all built on Jack's foundation.
 
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Nice biography for an unsung physicist. Thanks for sharing V50!
 

What is "Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics" about?

"Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics" is a biographical book about the life and work of renowned theoretical physicist Jack Smith. It explores his contributions to the field of physics, his personal life, and his impact on the scientific community.

What makes Jack Smith a notable figure in theoretical physics?

Jack Smith is known for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of theoretical physics, particularly in the areas of quantum mechanics and relativity. He has also published numerous influential papers and mentored many successful physicists throughout his career.

How accurate is the information presented in "Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics"?

The author of the book, John Adams, conducted extensive research and interviews with colleagues and family members of Jack Smith to ensure the accuracy of the information presented. However, like any biographical work, there may be some discrepancies or differences in perspective.

What sets "Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics" apart from other books on theoretical physics?

Unlike many other books on theoretical physics, "Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics" focuses on the personal life and experiences of a renowned physicist. It offers a unique insight into the motivations, struggles, and achievements of an influential scientist.

Who would benefit from reading "Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics"?

Anyone interested in theoretical physics, the history of science, or biographies of notable scientists would benefit from reading "Jack Smith: A Life in Theoretical Physics." It may also appeal to those looking for inspiration from a successful figure in the field of physics.

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