Written by: Grace Lee

Frank Close: Illuminating the World of Particle Physics

Frank Close is a renowned particle physicist who has made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe, earning him a reputation as a brilliant researcher and communicator. As Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford, Close has dedicated his career to advancing the field of particle physics and sharing its wonders with the world.

A Passion for Particle Physics

Close's fascination with particle physics began at an early age, and he pursued his passion with relentless enthusiasm. He earned his BSc in physics from St Andrews University in 1967, followed by a DPhil in theoretical physics from Magdalen College, Oxford, under the supervision of Richard Dalitz in 1970.

A Career of Discovery and Communication

• From 1970 to 1972, Close worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Stanford University's Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, where he contributed to groundbreaking research in particle physics.
• In 1973, he joined the Daresbury Laboratory in Cheshire and later moved to CERN in Switzerland, where he worked from 1973 to 1975.
• Close returned to the UK in 1975, joining the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire, where he became the head of Theoretical Physics Division in 1991.
• He served as the head of communication and public education activities at CERN from 1997 to 2000, promoting physics outreach to a broader audience.
• In 2001, Close became Professor of Theoretical Physics at Oxford University, a position he held until his retirement.

Awards and Honors

Close's contributions to particle physics and science communication have earned him numerous awards and honors, including:

• Fellow of the Institute of Physics (FInstP) in 1991
• Kelvin Medal and Prize in 1996 for outstanding contributions to the public understanding of physics
• Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2000
• Vice-president of the British Association for the Advancement of Science from 1993 to 1999
• Chairman of the British team BPhO in the International Physics Olympiad since 2003

A Renaissance Man

Beyond his academic pursuits, Close is a man of varied interests, enjoying writing, singing, travel, squash, and Real tennis. He is a member of Harwell Squash Club and has a passion for sharing his love of science with the world.

Through his work, Close has inspired countless people to explore the wonders of particle physics, making complex concepts accessible and engaging for a broad audience. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of scientists, educators, and enthusiasts, solidifying his place as one of the most influential particle physicists of our time.