Vignette 72: Oliphant's papers

Sir Mark Oliphant (1901–2000) AC KBE FRS FAA FTSE, studied physics at the University from 1919, achieving First Class Honours in 1922. Oliphant’s wartime efforts and humanitarian efforts have made him one of our University’s most notable figures.

After graduating, Oliphant studied nuclear physics at the University of Cambridge and worked on sub-atomic physics projects. He discovered nuclear fusion as the basis for a hydrogen bomb. Oliphant then developed short-length radar and resonant cavity magnetron for portable radar in aircraft, with a team at the University of Birmingham.

He was instrumental in the establishment of the Manhattan Project, though he returned to England before the atomic bomb was used at Hiroshima. Later he became a critic of nuclear weapons, and a member of the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs. In 1950, Oliphant returned to Australia as the first Director of the Research School of Physical Sciences at the new Australian National University and established the Australian Academy of Science.

Oliphant became Governor of South Australia (1971–1976) and used the opportunity to promote science in educational institutions, motivating future generations. He was knighted in 1959 and awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia in 1977.

Oliphant donated his collection of papers, letters, and photographs to the University Library in 1984. Additional papers, medals and letters were donated after his death by his daughter Vivian Wilson. The extensive collection of his papers gives an insight into the life and times of a remarkable man.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Leading for the future. p.102