John B. Goodenough, the University of Texas at Austin professor whose groundbreaking invention of the lithium-ion battery revolutionized the modern world, passed away on Sunday, June 25th, at the remarkable age of 100. A true pioneer, John Goodenough was not only a brilliant scientist but also a dedicated mentor and public servant whose impact resonates globally. His work ushered in the wireless revolution, placing portable electronic devices in billions of hands worldwide. His extraordinary contributions were recognized with the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, a long-awaited acknowledgment that fittingly made him the oldest Nobel laureate in history.
“John’s legacy as a brilliant scientist is immeasurable — his discoveries improved the lives of billions of people around the world,” stated UT Austin President Jay Hartzell. “Throughout his distinguished career, John remained at the forefront of scientific research, relentlessly pursuing innovative energy-storage solutions. John’s work and unwavering commitment to our mission perfectly embody the spirit of a Longhorn – that what starts here changes the world – and his presence will be deeply missed within our UT community.”
Nobel Laureate John Goodenough: Honored for Lithium-Ion Battery Development
John B. Goodenough, holder of the Virginia H. Cockrell Centennial Chair of Engineering at the Cockrell School of Engineering, was awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. He shared this prestigious honor with Stanley Whittingham of the State University of New York at Binghamton and Akira Yoshino of Meijo University, for their collective contributions to “the development of lithium-ion batteries.”
The Nobel Foundation aptly recognized their work as foundational for “a wireless and fossil fuel-free society,” acknowledging the immense benefit to humankind. Born in 1922, John Goodenough identified and developed the crucial cathode materials that achieved the high energy density necessary for portable electronics, effectively launching the wireless revolution. Today, lithium-ion batteries incorporating Goodenough’s innovative cathode materials are ubiquitous, powering everything from mobile phones and laptops to power tools, tablets, and the burgeoning electric and hybrid vehicle industries.
Celebrating a Century of John Goodenough: 100th Birthday Symposium
To commemorate John Goodenough’s 100th birthday on July 25, 2022, leading battery experts from across the globe convened at a symposium at the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. Many of these leaders acknowledged the profound influence of John Goodenough’s pioneering work on their own research and careers. The symposium served as a platform to share insights, celebrate his achievements, and discuss the future of battery technology.
“He embodies ingenuity, strength, and excellence within the Cockrell School,” remarked Sharon Wood, executive vice president and provost at UT Austin and former dean of the Cockrell School. “His mere presence inspires students and motivates our faculty to strive for excellence. He has undeniably and profoundly changed the world through his inventions. And, notably, he possesses the most infectious laugh on campus, making his presence instantly recognizable.”
John Goodenough: Fast Facts About a Transformative Inventor
John Goodenough’s impact extends beyond his key invention. Here are some noteworthy facts about his remarkable life and career:
- Lifelong Dedication: Even at an advanced age, John Goodenough remained committed to his research, working daily in his lab and filling the Texas Engineering buildings with his distinctive, joyful laugh.
- Author and Scholar: He authored several books, including his insightful autobiography, “Witness to Grace.”
- WWII Service: He served his country as an Army meteorologist during World War II.
- Early Computing Contributions: At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Goodenough laid essential groundwork for random-access memory (RAM), a cornerstone of modern digital computers.
- Commercial Success: Sony successfully commercialized lithium-ion battery technology using his materials in 1991, marking a turning point in portable electronics.
- Prestigious Awards: His trophy cabinet includes the Japan Prize, the Charles Stark Draper Prize, the National Medal of Science, the Benjamin Franklin Award, the Enrico Fermi Award, the Welch Award, and the Copley Medal, among numerous other accolades.
- International Origins: Born in Germany in 1922, John Goodenough was celebrated annually by his students with a birthday cake and festivities on July 25th.
- Royal Society Recognition: The Royal Society of Chemistry established the John B. Goodenough Award to honor significant contributions in materials chemistry.
- Mentorship by Giants: At the University of Chicago, where he earned his master’s and doctoral degrees, John Goodenough was mentored by Nobel laureate Enrico Fermi and Manhattan Project scientist John A. Simpson.
- Wisdom of Experience: One of his frequently shared pieces of advice was, “Don’t retire too early,” reflecting his own enduring passion for discovery and innovation.
The Enduring Impact of John Goodenough
John Goodenough’s pioneering battery research has profoundly reshaped our world, and his legacy as an inventor, mentor, and inspiration will continue to inspire generations of scientists and engineers. His work at The University of Texas at Austin serves as a testament to the transformative power of visionary investment in scientific exploration and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to knowledge and innovation.
