Paul Scherrer

Paul Scherrer was a Swiss physicist whose work had a lasting impact on science and Swiss society. Born on 3 February 1890, he studied at ETH Zurich and initially focused on X-rays, earning recognition for his contributions. As nuclear physics advanced, he shifted his attention to this field and played a key role in developing Switzerland’s nuclear energy program in close collaboration with the Swiss Federal Council. 

Scherrer played also a key role in the foundations for CERN in Geneva, shaping international research in particle physics. He passed away in 1969 following a horse-riding accident, leaving behind a legacy of scientific achievement. 

The scientist

• Wikipedia
• ETH Library | ETH Zurich (DE)
• Who is Paul Scherrer? | Paul Scherrer Institut  
• Der Swimming Pool Reaktor in Würenlingen  (DE)

The science

• Explanation of the Faraday effect: Youtube  
• Explanation of Debye-Scherrer method: Sabancı University  

The illustration

Drawn by Nuriya Nurgalieva: Website