Dan Shechtman

Dan Shechtman was born on January 24, 1941, in Tel Aviv, Israel, during the British Mandate of Palestine. His early life was influenced by the nascent Israeli state and its burgeoning educational system. He would go on to become a highly influential figure in materials science, particularly known for his work in the discovery of quasicrystals.

On April 8, 1982, Dan Shechtman made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of crystallography while working at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States. He observed a diffraction pattern from an aluminum-manganese alloy that displayed a tenfold symmetry, which was considered impossible under the existing crystallography rules, as it defied the rigid structure of periodic crystals. Despite initial skepticism and opposition from the scientific community, Shechtman persevered with his research, eventually proving the existence of quasicrystals—structures that are ordered but not periodic.

In November 1984, Dan Shechtman and his colleagues published their findings on the discovery of quasicrystals in the journal Physical Review Letters. This publication marked a significant milestone in the field of materials science as it introduced the scientific community to a new form of solid matter with an aperiodic structure. The paper, titled 'Metallic Phase with Long-Range Orientational Order and No Translational Symmetry', challenged existing paradigms and opened up new avenues for research in crystallography and materials science, leading to its recognition as a pivotal work in the field.

Dan Shechtman joined the Ames Laboratory in 1992, where he continued his research into quasicrystals and other aspects of materials science. The Ames Laboratory, affiliated with Iowa State University and operated by the U.S. Department of Energy, provided Shechtman with significant resources and support to further explore the implications of his earlier discovery. His tenure at the laboratory was marked by collaborative research efforts and contributions to advancing the field, further cementing his reputation as a leader in materials science.

In May 1998, Dan Shechtman co-authored a significant work on quasicrystals, providing a comprehensive overview of the topic and summarizing the developments in the field since their discovery. This book has been influential in the academic community, serving as an essential reference for researchers and students alike. It covers not only the fundamental properties of quasicrystals but also their potential applications and the ongoing research inspired by their unique structures. The publication further established Shechtman as a leading authority in crystallography.

In 2009, Dan Shechtman was awarded the Israel Prize in the field of Physics and Chemistry, the country's most prestigious award for scientific achievement. This accolade was given in recognition of his groundbreaking work in discovering quasicrystals, which had already earned him international acclaim. The Israel Prize is considered one of the highest honors in the country, reflecting Shechtman's outstanding contributions to science and his influence on the global stage. The award ceremony was a celebrated event, recognizing the impact of his research within Israel and beyond.

On October 5, 2011, Dan Shechtman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his discovery of quasicrystals. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences recognized his pioneering work, which has fundamentally altered our understanding of solid matter and the arrangement of atoms. This award not only acknowledged Shechtman's perseverance in the face of skepticism but also solidified the importance of quasicrystals in both theoretical and practical applications. His work has inspired advancements in materials science and has had a profound impact on fundamental and applied research across multiple disciplines.

Dan Shechtman announced his candidacy for President of Israel in June 2012, bringing his scientific prestige and charismatic personality into the political arena. While he was known for his transformative work in materials science, Shechtman's entry into politics marked a significant shift in his career path. His campaign focused on issues of education, scientific research, and innovation, reflecting his background and values. Despite his efforts and public interest, Shechtman ultimately did not win the presidency, but his campaign highlighted the intersection of science and politics.

In 2014, Dan Shechtman was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in the United States, an institution dedicated to recognizing outstanding scholarly achievements in scientific research. This honor was in recognition of his contributions to the field of materials science with his discovery of quasicrystals which has revolutionized the scientific community's understanding of crystal structures. Election to the academy is one of the most prestigious recognitions a scientist can receive, highlighting Shechtman's esteemed position within the scientific community.

In April 2018, Dan Shechtman published his autobiography, offering an in-depth look into his life and career, from his early days in Israel to his groundbreaking work in materials science. The book provides personal insights into his discovery of quasicrystals and his experiences within the scientific community, sharing both triumphs and struggles. It not only highlights his perseverance in the face of skepticism but also sheds light on his views on education, science, and innovation. Through this autobiography, Shechtman aimed to inspire future generations of scientists and innovators.