Hugh D. (David) Politzer

Hugh D. (David) Politzer serves as the Richard Chace Tolman Professor of Theoretical Physics at the California Institute of Technology within the Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy. His academic career at Caltech spans from Visiting Associate (1975-76) to his current distinguished professorship established in 2004.

Professor Politzer's research focuses on fundamental theoretical physics, with particular expertise in quantum mechanics and particle physics as evidenced by his teaching assignments. His educational background includes a B.S. from the University of Michigan (1969) and Ph.D. from Harvard University (1974), establishing a strong foundation for his contributions to theoretical physics.

For the 2025-2026 academic year, Professor Politzer is scheduled to teach Physics Laboratory courses during Winter and Spring terms, as well as the First-Year Seminar 'The Science of Music' in Fall term, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to both advanced physics instruction and interdisciplinary science education.

During his distinguished career, Professor Politzer served as Executive Officer of the Physics department from 1986-88, contributing to academic administration while maintaining his research and teaching responsibilities. His office is located in the Downs-Lauritsen Laboratory (HEP), specifically room 416, where he continues to advance theoretical physics research and mentor students.