OR

source: wikipedia.org
22 Aug, 1915
15 Jan, 2007
Stroke
Canadian, American
Scientist
91
James Hillier, a scientist and inventor of Canadian-American descent, was born in Brantford, Ontario, in 1915. His curiosity about the world was nurtured by his parents, which set the stage for his future in scientific exploration. He pursued a degree in physics at the University of Toronto, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Physics in 1937, followed by a Master of Arts in 1938 and a Ph.D. in 1941.
During his studies, Hillier developed a passion for electron microscopy. His doctoral work led him to create a prototype of the electron microscope, inspired by the original design by Ernst Ruska. This breakthrough laid the foundation for Hillier’s lifelong contributions to the field of microscopy.
In 1938, James Hillier, along with his collaborator Albert Prebus, unveiled the first high-resolution electron microscope in North America. This invention was a significant milestone, allowing scientists to observe microscopic structures with unprecedented clarity and detail.
In 1941, Hillier joined the Radio Corporation of America (RCA), where he dedicated his efforts to improving the electron microscope’s resolution and magnification. His work at RCA led to the development of several groundbreaking technologies, including the RCA SelectaVision. Hillier’s advancements had wide-reaching impacts in fields such as biology, medicine, metallurgy, and electronics.
After retiring from RCA in 1977, Hillier continued to share his expertise as a consultant and advisor to numerous organizations. In 1993, he established the James Hillier Foundation in his hometown of Brantford, providing scholarships to local students pursuing education in science. James Hillier passed away in 2007 at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the world of electron microscopy and scientific innovation.
James Hillier
James Hillier
Male
Stroke
Brantford, Ontario, Canada
Princeton, New Jersey, U.S.
Logician: James Hillier was driven by his curiosity to learn new things. He was objective and cared about the truth.
He made significant contributions to the field of nuclear physics.
Hillier played a key role in the development of radar technology.
Hillier was a founding member of the Electron Microscopy Society of America.
James Hillier co-invented the electron microscope, revolutionizing scientific imaging.
He built the first high-resolution electron microscope.
He was awarded the IEEE Founders Medal in 1981.
He was awarded the IRI Medal from the Industrial Research Institute in 1975.
He was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1997.
Hillier was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1980.
James Hillier was awarded the Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research in 1960.