Physicist Chien-Shiung Wu’s Role in the Manhattan Project

Chien-Shiung Wu was a Chinese physicist who made important contributions to science, particularly during the Manhattan Project. She faced discrimination because she was both a woman and Chinese, but her work earned her the Wolf Prize for Physics. She was overlooked for a Nobel Prize that her male colleagues received.

Early Life and Education: Born on May 31, 1912, in China, Wu grew up in a family that valued education and believed in equal opportunities for both boys and girls. Her father, who was involved in revolutionary activities, supported her interest in science by providing her with books. Wu attended a girls’ school founded by her father, which laid the foundation for her future academic success.

Academic Journey: Wu studied physics in China and later moved to the United States to pursue her Ph.D. She conducted research at the University of California, Berkeley, where she worked with top scientists. She faced less discrimination there compared to other places where she had studied.

Contributions to Science: During World War II, Wu played a key role in the Manhattan Project at Columbia University. Her understanding of nuclear physics helped advance the project’s efforts. Despite her contributions, she encountered sexism and racism in her career.

Challenging Scientific Theories: After the war, Wu continued her research and conducted experiments that disproved a major scientific theory. Her male colleagues received the Nobel Prize for this discovery, but she did not, which highlighted the gender biases in science.

Advocacy for Equality: Wu was not only a brilliant scientist but also a strong advocate for gender equality. She fought for equal pay and recognition for women in science throughout her career. She questioned why gender should matter in scientific achievements.

Legacy: Wu received the Wolf Prize for her contributions to physics. Even after retiring, she remained committed to advocating for human rights and equality. Her legacy inspires people to strive for fairness and inclusion in all fields of work.

Re-reported from the article originally published in She the People.