Dan Shechtman was born on January 24, 1941, in Israel. He developed a passion for science at a young age and pursued a career in chemistry. Shechtman obtained his Ph.D. in materials engineering from the Technion in 1972. His academic achievements laid the foundation for his groundbreaking research in the field of chemistry.
In 2011, Dan Shechtman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his discovery of quasicrystals. These structures, which are ordered but not periodic, revolutionized the field of crystallography. Shechtman's work challenged conventional beliefs about the nature of crystals and opened up new possibilities for materials science.
Throughout his career, Shechtman has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field of chemistry. In 1999, he won the Wolf Prize in Physics, and in 2000, he was awarded the Gregori Aminoff Prize by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Shechtman's research has earned him recognition as a leading figure in the scientific community.
Shechtman is married to Prof. Tzipora Shechtman, and together they have four children. His family has been a source of love and support throughout his career, allowing him to focus on his research and achieve great success in the field of chemistry.
In January 2014, Dan Shechtman announced his candidacy for the presidency of Israel. His decision to enter politics was a bold move that demonstrated his commitment to serving his country in a new capacity. Shechtman's leadership qualities and dedication to excellence make him a strong candidate for the position.
Despite his many accomplishments, Dan Shechtman has faced criticism from some in the scientific community. Notably, he was heavily criticized by Linus Pauling for his interpretation of non-periodic research. Shechtman's willingness to challenge traditional beliefs has sometimes put him at odds with his peers, but his dedication to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge remains unwavering.
Overall, Dan Shechtman's contributions to chemistry have been significant and far-reaching. His discovery of quasicrystals has transformed our understanding of crystallography, and his commitment to excellence and innovation continue to inspire future generations of scientists. Through his research, leadership, and dedication to his country, Shechtman has made a lasting impact on the world of science and beyond.Related links