Life of Shirley Ann Jackson

Shirley Ann Jackson was a very curious child.Growing up Shirley parents helped her build and design experiments and projects.At the age of ten, Shirley did lots of experiments on birds and wasp.Shirley had three siblings two sisters and one brothers.

Jackson attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Physics in 1968. Subsequently, she continued her studies at MIT, obtaining both her Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in theoretical elementary particle physics, making her the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. from MIT in any field.

In 1991, Jackson worked as a professor at Rutgers while working for AT&T Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill ,New Jersey.In 1994 While at Bell Laboratories Shirley Ann Jackson met and later married Dr. Morris A. Washington, a physics professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. and they have one adult son.

Jackson's scientific career is distinguished by her groundbreaking research in theoretical physics, particularly in the fields of condensed matter physics and particle physics. Her work laid the foundation for advancements in semiconductor theory, which has been instrumental in the development of numerous technologies, including telecommunications and solar cells. Notably, Jackson's research paved the way for innovations in the field of optoelectronic materials, revolutionizing the efficiency of electronic devices.

In addition to her scientific accomplishments, Shirley Ann Jackson has made significant strides in leadership and advocacy. Throughout her career, she has held various leadership positions, including serving as the Chair of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission from 1995 to 1999, where she oversaw the regulation of nuclear reactors and materials. Jackson's tenure at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission was marked by her commitment to safety and public welfare.

As Shirley Ann Jackson invented , created and experimented multiple things one of her most life changing inventions was "The protable tax machine".The reason Jackson created a portable fax machine is because transferring messages by letter or note is hard and tiring.By creating a portable fax machine Jackson can send messages, notes , calls,  and letters across the world in less than a minute. 

In addition to her scientific accomplishments, Shirley Ann Jackson has made significant strides in leadership and advocacy. Throughout her career, she has held various leadership positions, including serving as the Chair of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission from 1995 to 1999, where she oversaw the regulation of nuclear reactors and materials. Jackson's tenure at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission was marked by her commitment to safety and public welfare.

Shirley Ann Jackson's legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and leadership. Her pioneering contributions to science have not only advanced our understanding of the physical world but have also inspired future generations of scientists and engineers. Moreover, her leadership roles have shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for greater representation of women and minorities in STEM leadership positions. Jackson's tireless advocacy for diversity and inclusion continues to shape the landscape of STEM education and research, ensuring that the next generation of innovators reflects the rich tapestry of human experience.Shirley Ann Jackson is no longer with us.