Renowned Physicist and Jazz Musician Stephon Alexander to Deliver 2025 Kaczmarczik Lecture
January 28, 2025
On February 27, the Department of Physics will welcome Dr. Stephon Alexander to present the annual Kaczmarczik Lecture, one of the College of Arts and Sciences’ signature events. In his lecture, "The Jazz of Physics," Alexander will discuss the interconnection between music and the evolution of astrophysics and quantum physics.
As Professor of Physics at Brown University, Alexander is a theoretical physicist specializing in cosmology, particle physics and quantum gravity (String Theory and Loop Quantum Gravity). He also explores interconnections between music, physics, mathematics and technology though recordings, performance, teaching and public lectures.
Alexander is the CEO and Founder of the non-profit Sound+Science, which aims to empower New York City youth and provide new career pathways into the world of STEM. He is also a past President of the National Society of Black Physicists and former executive director of the Harlem Gallery of Science.
In his critically acclaimed book, The Jazz of Physics: The Secret Link Between Music and the Structure of the Universe, Alexander uses jazz to answer physics’ questions about the universe. He explores how jazz music mirrors modern physics, such as quantum mechanics, general relativity and the physics of the early universe. He also discusses ways that innovations in physics have been and can be inspired from "improvisational logic" exemplified in jazz performance and practice.
"I'll forever be grateful to musician/physicist Stephon Alexander, who describes the profound ways in which notes and numbers are connected,” wrote Felix Contreras when The Jazz of Physics was selected as one of NPR’s “Best Books of 2016.” “He'll help you see how our awe-inspiring universe is on a never-ending, cosmological riff.”
Ahead of Dr. Alexander’s lecture, hundreds of local high school students will participate in an experiential Science Fair hosted by members of the Drexel Society of Physics Students and faculty and staff in the physics department. The fair will feature exciting science demonstrations and exhibits with brief, engaging presentations that cover a wide range of physics research topics.
For nearly 30 years, the Kaczmarczik Lecture has been a significant event at Drexel University. The lecture series was established in 1995 to honor Professor of Physics Paul Kaczmarczik. Kaczmarczik graduated from Drexel with a BS in physics in 1948 and began his career at Drexel in 1953, where he became a key player in building the physics department.
The Kaczmarczik Lecture series consistently draws outstanding scientists who advance the forefront of physics research. Past guest lecturers have included numerous Nobel Laureates and renowned scientists from around the world who present on topics that range from mapping the universe to revolutions in fundamental physics.
Note: This event is at capacity. You may RSVP to join our waitlist.