About
Professor Alan MacKay is a distinguished academic at Birkbeck College, University of London, renowned for his groundbreaking work in crystallography and quasicrystals. A former student and lecturer under J.D. Bernal, he pioneered the concept of quasicrystals through his 1981 paper on pentagonal snowflakes, leading to the discovery of the MacKay icosahedron. His research spans geometry in materials, interdisciplinary science, and the social dimensions of scientific inquiry. Educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, MacKay has held posts globally and contributed to science policy through the Science Policy Foundation. His writings, including translations of Haeckel and a poetry collection Floating World, reflect his belief in bridging cultures and disciplines.
- Education: Wolverhampton Grammar School, Trinity College, Cambridge
- Key Contributions: Quasicrystal theory, flexi-crystallography, science policy advocacy
Research interests include geometric principles in materials, historical context of science, and the societal role of scientific knowledge. His interdisciplinary approach integrates mathematics, physics, and humanities, exemplified by his anthology of scientific quotations and translations.
