Steven Chu

Steven Chu is the William R. Kenan, Jr. Professor of Physics, Molecular and Cellular Physiology, and Energy Science and Engineering at Stanford University. He served as U.S. Secretary of Energy from January 2009 to April 2013, where he initiated several key programs, including ARPA-E and the Energy Innovation Hubs, and played a crucial role in addressing the BP Oil leak. Chu has made significant contributions to the fields of biophysics and molecular physiology, particularly through his pioneering work in laser cooling and optical trapping of atoms, as well as developing atomic fountain clocks and optical tweezers for biomolecules. He has received numerous accolades, including the 1997 Nobel Prize for his work in laser cooling, and is a member of several prestigious academies, including the National Academy of Sciences and the Royal Society. Additionally, he has been recognized with 35 honorary degrees for his contributions to science and engineering.

Education

• Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley (1976)
• B.S., University of Rochester, Physics (1970)
• A.B., Univesrity of Rochester, Mathematics (1970)