Born: 1926 (Terril, Iowa)
Biography:
Darleane Christian Hoffman, born on November 8, 1926, in Terril, Iowa, is an American nuclear chemist who has made significant contributions to the field of science. She is renowned for her role in confirming the existence of Seaborgium, element 106, and for her extensive research on transuranium elements. Throughout her career, she has held various positions at prestigious research institutions and has been recognized for her exceptional achievements.
Growing up in a small town, Hoffman was influenced by her parents’ intellectual pursuits. Her father, Carl B. Christian, was a mathematics teacher and superintendent of schools, while her mother, Elverna Clute Christian, was involved in writing and directing plays. It was during her freshman year at Iowa State College (now Iowa State University) that Hoffman discovered her passion for chemistry. Inspired by her chemistry professor, Nellie May Naylor, she decided to pursue further studies in the field.
Hoffman obtained her B.S. degree in chemistry in 1948 and went on to complete her Ph.D. in nuclear chemistry in 1951, both from Iowa State University. After completing her doctoral work, she married Marvin M. Hoffman, a physicist, and the couple had two children, Maureane and Daryl.
In 1953, Hoffman began her career as a staff member at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory, where she faced initial resistance from the human resources department due to their skepticism about a woman’s ability to be a chemist. Despite the challenges, Hoffman persevered and became a pivotal figure in the Chemistry and Nuclear Chemistry Division. In 1979, she was appointed as the Division Leader, showcasing her exceptional leadership skills and scientific expertise.
In 1984, Hoffman joined the University of California, Berkeley as a tenured professor in the Department of Chemistry and as the Leader of the Heavy Element Nuclear & Radiochemistry Group at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Alongside her academic appointments, she also played a crucial role in establishing the Seaborg Institute for Transactinium Science at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in 1991. Hoffman served as the institute’s first director until 1996 when she transitioned to the role of Senior Advisor and Charter Director.
Hoffman’s research contributions have been invaluable to the field of nuclear chemistry. She focused on studying the chemical and nuclear properties of transuranium elements, making significant discoveries and advancements in our understanding of these complex elements. Notably, her work led to the confirmation of the existence of seaborgium, adding to the knowledge of the periodic table.
Throughout her career, Hoffman has been recognized for her groundbreaking work and accomplishments. In 1997, she received the prestigious National Medal of Science in recognition of her impactful contributions. In 2000, she became only the second woman to be awarded the Priestley Medal, following in the footsteps of Mary L. Good in 1997. Other notable accolades include the Garvan-Olin Medal in 1990, the ACS Award for Nuclear Chemistry in 1983 (as the first woman recipient), and her induction as a Fellow of the American Physical Society in 1986.
Hoffman’s dedication and perseverance have made her a role model for aspiring scientists, especially women, in the field of nuclear chemistry. Her exceptional contributions to scientific research have significantly advanced our understanding of the fundamental building blocks of matter. Hoffman’s impact on society extends beyond her scientific achievements, as she has played a crucial role in paving the way for women in science.
Awards:
– 2023: Enrico Fermi Presidential Award
– 2014: Los Alamos Medal
– 2000: Priestley Medal
– 1997: National Medal of Science
– 1990: Garvan-Olin Medal
– 1986: Fellow of the American Physical Society
– 1983: ACS Award for Nuclear Chemistry (first woman recipient)