History of Science and Technology

The 1927 Solvay Conference in Brussels was an extraordinary gathering of famous physicists. Included in the photo are M. Planck, Mme. Curie, H. A. Lorentz, A. Einstein, N. Bohr, E. Shroedinger, W. Pauli and W. Heisenberg.

photo courtesy of History of Science and Technology

The University has a unique approach to the history of science, in which the historians are members of scientific and engineering departments and participants in a unifying history of science program. Although History of Science and Technology does maintain a separate graduate program, it is also possible to obtain a degree in physics with an emphasis on the history of physics.

Professor Alan Shapiro specializes in the history of optics and mechanics from the Scientific Revolution of the 16th century through to the early nineteenth century, with particular focus on Isaac Newton's work, along with the historical development of scientific methodology, and the history of color science and the interaction of art, science, and technology.

Professor Michel Janssen's main interests now focus on the study of the development of quantum theory in the first few decades of the 20th century.

Related Links

• Program in History of Science and Technology Home