Famed Big Bang Theory Challenger to Speak at UW

The work of Paul Steinhardt, Princeton University’s Albert Einstein Professor of Science, professor of physics and astrophysical sciences, and co-founder of the Princeton Center for Theoretical Science, will be featured in a series of events on the University of Wyoming campus beginning Thursday, April 17.

Most of the events are free and open to the public.

Hosted by UW’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, the Honors College and the Office of the President, Steinhardt will discuss his challenge to the Big Bang theory, his discovery of a completely unexpected new form of matter and his path to truth in science. Known as an engaging speaker, his talks will be educational for all on some of the most basic questions in science, such as “How did the universe begin?” and “What is the structure of matter?”

“We are so pleased to host such a prominent scientist whose work continues to challenge earlier scientific formulations of the universe,” says UW President Ed Seidel, a relativistic astrophysicist and associate of Steinhardt. “While his work centers on physics, his insights and approach to following evidence in the pursuit of truth will appeal to a broad audience.”

On Friday, April 25, Steinhardt will deliver a public presentation accessible to “curious nonspecialists” on his most recent work challenging what is now considered the standard theory of the beginning and early evolution of the universe, which he himself helped pioneer. “The Great Debate 2025: How the Universe Came to Be” will take place at 4 p.m. in Room 129 of the Classroom Building. The presentation will include a question-and-answer session with Steinhardt.

The talk will be followed immediately by a reception. A livestream link will be available the day of the talk here.

Additionally, Steinhardt will give a presentation on his discovery of a new form of matter, previously thought to be impossible, which he named “quasicrystals,” Thursday, April 24, at 10:30 a.m. in Room 506 of Coe Library. His presentation will include the amazing story of his worldwide adventure to find a naturally occurring sample of quasicrystals, for which some have called him “Indiana Steinhardt.” Organizers say this presentation also should be entertaining and engaging for nonspecialists who would like to hear an “impossible” but true tale.

Steinhardt also will spend time with student and faculty groups, including a colloquium lunch with physics and astronomy students and a discussion with honors students. These events are part of the Rebka-Hafele-Einstein Distinguished Lecture Series hosted by the Department of Physics and Astronomy, sponsored by Patrick and Nora Ivers.

In preparation for Steinhardt’s visit, the Honors College will host a screening of the interview between Steinhardt and UW honors student Annalise Gade -- a clip from the interview can be seen here -- Thursday, April 17, at 7 p.m. in Room 123 of Coe Library. Additionally, the Honors College will host a discussion with Seidel Monday, April 21, at 7 p.m. in the Guthrie House living room.

Danny Dale, UW’s Harry C. Vaughan Professor of Astronomy and associate dean of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, will host a discussion on cosmology titled “Dark Energy, Dark Matter and the Future of the Universe” at the Harry C. Vaughan Planetarium Friday, April 18, at 7 p.m.

Steinhardt is the recipient of numerous awards and author of a popular account of the discovery of natural quasicrystals, “The Second Kind of Impossible: The Extraordinary Quest for a New Form of Matter,” which will be available at the University Store.  

“Modern scientists with both the breadth and depth of the understanding of the natural world like that of Paul Steinhardt are rare,” says Jinke Tang, chair of UW’s Department of Physics and Astronomy.

“It’s exciting to have a scientist of Dr. Steinhardt’s stature sit down with students to discuss his work and to share ideas about the very nature of scientific inquiry,” adds Honors College Dean Peter Parolin.

Steinhardt’s visit will conclude a series of three spring lectures supported by the Office of the President about the importance of free expression and constructive dialogue to advancing knowledge and solving problems.

For more information about the events or disability accommodations, email Martha McCaughey at principles@uwyo.edu.