Frank Close is a theoretical particle physicist whose research specialises on the strong force that binds quarks to form hadrons and atomic nuclei. He is a prominent author and broadcaster, whose scholarship in research and authoritative commentary on particle physics and science in general have established him as a leading pedagogue and historian of the physical sciences.
Frank has written and spoken extensively about nuclear and particle physics at all levels of society, including Parliamentary Government, opinion formers, researchers, and the public at large. His 20 books on popular science, and on the history and practice of modern physics, have been translated into nineteen languages.
Frank is a past Executive vice-president of the British Science Association, a recipient of the Royal Society Michael Faraday Medal and the Institute of Physics Kelvin Medal. He received an OBE in 2000 for services to science.
Professional position
- Professor of Theoretical Physics Emeritus, University of Oxford
- Fellow Emeritus, Exeter College, University of Oxford
Subject groups
- Astronomy and physics
Elementary particle physics
- Other
History of science, Science education at secondary level
Awards
Michael Faraday Prize and Lecture
For his excellence in science communication.
