Kenneth Intriligator is a renowned theoretical physicist who holds the prestigious Broida Chair at UC San Diego. His academic journey began at UC San Diego, where he earned his undergraduate degree and was awarded the S.K. Ma Memorial Prize in Physics. After completing his Ph.D. in theoretical physics from Harvard University, Intriligator conducted postdoctoral research at Rutgers University and served as a long-term member at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey before returning to UC San Diego as an associate professor.
Intriligator’s research focuses on developing symmetry-based methods to discover new aspects of quantum fields and their connections to mathematics. He is fascinated by the concept of human beings existing as ripples on an ocean of quantum fields that occupy all of spacetime and believes that all forms of matter and interactions, including humans themselves, are comparable to waves on this quantum “ocean.” To learn more about quantum field theory and Intriligator’s research, you can watch a recorded talk he delivered at the Aspen Physics Center.
Intriligator expressed his gratitude towards many inspiring scientists, mentors, and collaborators who have influenced his career, starting with his mother who works as a space plasma physicist. He eagerly anticipates becoming a member of the Academy of Arts and Sciences and contributing to its mission of collaborating across disciplines to advance the common good.
President David Oxtoby warmly welcomed the 250 new members joining the American Academy of Arts and Sciences for their outstanding achievements in various fields such as science, arts, scholarship, leadership, business innovation, philanthropy or public service. Oxtoby commended these exceptional individuals for their curiosity, creativity and courage required to push boundaries while promoting intellectual pursuits, value of knowledge and belief that arts and sciences are vital to society’s wellbeing , honor , dignity , happiness . Further details about new members can be found on academy’s website .
