Ian Hutchinson

He is a physicist and engineer,  Professor Emeritus of Nuclear Science and Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His scientific research has sought to realize on earth controlled fusion energy, which powers the stars. It involves understanding the fourth state of matter: plasma, at temperatures hotter than the sun's center. He is a well known speaker and author on the relationships of philosophy, science and Christianity, as well as on plasma physics and fusion. 

My scientific field is the physics of plasmas, the behavior of the fourth state of matter. I mention three long-running threads of my research and scholarship. First, whether and how Nuclear Fusion (the energy source of the stars) can be turned into a practical energy source on earth. Second, fundamental theory of plasma phenomena such as non-linear solitary waves. Third, a wider perspective, contributing to explaining the relationship between Christianity and science.

1. Can we use extremely high magnetic field strength to build an experiment that would achieve controlled fusion experimentally on earth at a vastly reduced cost compared with the giant ITER experiment presently under construction in France?

2. Developing a rigorous multidimensional theory of plasma electron holes. These are a form of non-linear solitary wave that has now been widely observed by satellite measurements in space plasmas such as the solar wind and the Earth's magnetosphere. They are the result of various types of events and part of what is sometimes referred to as "Space Weather".

3. Christian perspectives in natural science: I have spoken and written extensively about scientism, the widespread erroneous view that the methods of science are the only route to real knowledge. Repudiating scientism, while upholding science's great value, is key to fostering more constructive relationships between science and the whole of society, including religious people. Many scientific societies (such as AAAS) now recognize this as important to their mission.