Jim Gates

Physicist

Birthday December 15, 1950

Birth Sign Sagittarius

Birthplace Florida

Age 73 years old

#234,647 Most Popular

About

Known for his work in the particle and theoretical physics sub-fields of superstring theory, supersymmetry, and super gravity, this renowned African-American physicist and University of Maryland professor was awarded the 2013 National Medal of Science.

Before Fame

After earning both his bachelor's degree and his doctorate in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he co-wrote a 1984 scientific work titled Superspace, or One Thousand and One Lessons in Supersymmetry.

Trivia

He frequently appeared on PBS's physics-themed NOVA programs and also created a series of videos on the topic of superstring theory.

Family Life

A native of Tampa, Florida, Sylvester James Gates, Jr. (better known as Jim Gates) was born to a United States Army officer father and spent his childhood in several different cities.

Associated With

He was a member of United States President Barack Obama's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.