A genius Glasgow University scientist is being publically celebrated after shaping the modern world with his ideas.
William Thomson, better known as Lord Kelvin, is being remembered 200 years after his birth for his series of significant breakthroughs.
During his 53-year career at the University, he became one of the 19th century’s most important scientists, focusing on mathematics, physics and engineering.
His groundbreaking work on thermodynamics led to the development of the absolute temperature scale, which is now known as the Kelvin scale.
READ MORE: Glasgow artist's tribute to famous city scientist Lord Kelvin
He played a key role in laying the first transatlantic telegraph cable, inaugurating the age of intercontinental communications, and made important contributions to the study of electricity and magnetism.
He filed 70 patents during his lifetime for inventions including the Kelvin compass, which helped improve maritime navigation.
Now with four weeks to go until the bicentenary of his birth on June 26, the University is unveiling a series of public events.
This includes activities and exhibitions linked to Kelvin’s life and work which will run during the month of June.
Kelvin’s achievements in precision measurement will be celebrated in the context of the cutting-edge science of today with two public lectures from speakers from the worlds of physics and engineering.
The Hunterian, which has a permanent display dedicated to Kelvin, will be showcasing his life and work through public events and lectures in June.
The Hunterian and the University of Glasgow Library will also hold a two-part event, which offers a closer look at selected items from both Archives and Special Collections and The Hunterian's scientific instrument collection.
READ MORE: Lord Kelvin: From 10-year-old Glasgow student to giant of science
Professor Miles Padgett is Kelvin Chair of Natural Philosophy in the School of Physics & Astronomy.
He said: “I’m proud to hold the position that celebrates Kelvin, one of the University’s most remarkable inventors and innovators, and whose example continues to inspire scientists and engineers around the world today.
“I think Kelvin himself would be proud of our research at the University of Glasgow today.
"All across the University, just like Kelvin, we’re working to turn pure science into innovative technologies that impact the real world, making better medical devices, next-generation communications, new net-zero technologies and more.
“I hope that people will join us on campus throughout June and beyond to celebrate Kelvin by seeing our rich collection of artifacts and artwork inspired by his historic legacy, and hearing about his life and work from expert speakers.”
For more information on the life and achievements of Lord Kelvin, and the University of Glasgow’s planned celebrations during the month of June, click here.
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