JILA Fellow Adjoint Alan Gallagher
The JILA community mourns the loss of Dr. Alan Gallagher, a trailblazing physicist, esteemed mentor, and JILA Fellow Adjoint, who passed away on November 20, 2024, at the age of 88.
Gallagher’s career was marked by an enduring commitment to scientific inquiry and innovation, particularly in the realms of atomic and molecular physics. He was known for his pioneering work on collisional radiation and line-shape theory, including research that utilized spectroscopic methods to map out atomic and molecular interaction potentials. His contributions reshaped our understanding of phenomena such as pressure broadening and the spectra of colliding atoms.
As a long-time Fellow of JILA starting in 1967, Gallagher's scientific impact was matched by his dedication to the institute’s collaborative ethos. He acted as JILA’s Fellow Chair from 1999–2000. Gallagher mentored numerous students and colleagues, fostering a spirit of intellectual curiosity and rigor. His work has been widely recognized, including the publication of influential papers that continue to guide research in chemical physics and spectroscopy.
“In addition to his own research work, he had a strong commitment to the institute as a whole, and his collaborative spirit was essential to the success of the early days of JILA,” said JILA Fellow and NIST Fellow Judah Levine, who worked with Gallagher. “He was an invaluable source of advice on experimental techniques, and he shared his experience with all of us.”
Gallagher’s intellectual pursuits extended beyond the laboratory. In retirement, he sought innovative ways to address pressing global challenges. Notably, he designed a solar-powered frying pan to bake injera bread in East Africa, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional wood-fired cooking and addressing both environmental and health concerns. His ability to blend scientific expertise with humanitarian applications underscored his commitment to using knowledge for societal benefit.
The JILA community extends its heartfelt condolences to Dr. Gallagher’s family, friends, and colleagues. He will be remembered for his many contributions to science and the physics community.
Written by Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, JILA Science Communicator
JILA Fellow Alan Gallagher in his laboratory in the 1990s