Jocelyn Bell Burnell

Astrophysicist and pulsar discoverer

Jocelyn Bell Burnell - Astrophysicist and pulsar discoverer
Born

July 15th, 1943
81 years ago

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An astrophysicist and astronomer, this individual contributed significantly to the field of radio astronomy. In 1967, discovered the first pulsars, a finding that provided key insights into the properties of neutron stars and changed the understanding of stellar evolution. The discovery was made while working on a radio-telescope project at the University of Cambridge. The work earned the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1974, though the prize was awarded to her supervisor and another colleague, a point of discussion in the scientific community concerning recognition of contributions from early career researchers. Throughout a career in academia, engaged in teaching and research, emphasizing the importance of diversity in science.

Discovered the first pulsars

Contributed to radio astronomy

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