From its uncertain beginnings at the dawn of the twentieth century, quantum physics has had an enthralling history of scientific success and has grown into an extraordinarily rich and diverse techno-scientific field. Conventional narratives of its historical development, however, feature an almost exclusively male cast of characters, with only the exceptional presence of well-known heroines of physics such as Maria Skłodowska Curie, Lise Meitner, and Maria Göppert Mayer. Yet, many more women have actively contributed to the progress of quantum physics than are typically acknowledged. Women in the History of Quantum Physics (WiHQP) aims to recover and highlight the contributions of the numerous female physicists who, from diverse backgrounds and in different ways, have helped propel the field forward. By focusing on lesser-known figures and introducing a gender perspective to the historical study of physics, we aim to challenge the conventional male-dominated narratives that often reinforce the masculine image of the field.
The WiHQP collaboration was founded in early 2021, in preparation for the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. The group, which encompasses an international and interdisciplinary team of historians, philosophers, physicists, and writers — ranging from early career scholars to renowned academics, has been remarkably productive with several conference panels completed and more scheduled, a book in press, and yet more projects in the works.
For more info, please contact Margriet van der Heijden (chair), Patrick Charbonneau (associate chair), or Daniela Monaldi (past chair). You can also follow our activities by signing up for our Facebook group.
WiHQP gratefully acknowledges funding and support from APS-FHPP. For other quantum century activities, consult the Consortium for History of Science, Technology and Medicine.
