Hugh D. Politzer

Dr. Hugh D. (David) Politzer is a Richard Chace Tolman Professor of Theoretical Physics at the California Institute of Technology. He earned his B.S. from the University of Michigan (1969) and Ph.D. in Physics from Harvard University (1974). His academic career at Caltech spans decades, including roles as Visiting Associate (1975-76), Associate Professor (1977-79), Professor (1979-2004), and Tolman Professor since 2004. He has also served as Executive Officer (1986-88).

• Education: B.S. (University of Michigan, 1969), Ph.D. (Harvard, 1974)

Dr. Politzer's research focuses on theoretical physics and the science of music. He contributes to courses like Physics Laboratory (Winter/Spring 2024) and Frontiers in Physics (Fall 2023). His Nobel Prize in Physics (implied through his 2004 lecture) underscores his prominence in the field.

He actively engages in interdisciplinary projects, blending physics with musical instrument design and restoration, showcased on his personal website. This includes building banjos, ukuleles, and exploring acoustics through hands-on experiments.