Short Wave A Physics Legend Part Two: Chien-Shiung Wu's Granddaughter Reflects
Mar 11, 2022
Jada Yuan, a reporter at the Washington Post and granddaughter of physicist Chien-Shiung Wu, shares her journey to uncover her grandmother's remarkable legacy. She reflects on Wu's groundbreaking contributions to physics amidst societal challenges and her role in the Manhattan Project. Jada discusses the tension between public achievements and personal memories, revealing how Wu's story inspires women in science today. The conversation also touches on the emotional connection of family heritage and the challenges of carrying forward a legacy after loss.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Grandmother's Fame
- Jada Yuan didn't initially grasp her grandmother's scientific fame.
- People often commented on her grandmother deserving a Nobel Prize, confusing young Jada.
China Trip
- Jada's family traveled to China for Dr. Wu's centennial celebration, complete with banquets and speeches.
- A towering, mint-green statue of Dr. Wu was unveiled, a grand gesture Jada found surprising.
Early Education
- Dr. Wu's parents, strong advocates for girls' education, founded a school in their village.
- At 10, Wu surpassed their teaching capacity and left for boarding school, later studying physics secretly.