Lucasian

Lucasian refers to the Lucasian Professorship of Mathematics, a historic chair at the University of Cambridge. The title is derived from Henry Lucas, whose endowment in the 17th century gave rise to one of the oldest mathematics professorships in the world. The adjective Lucasian is used to denote the position itself and things associated with the holder of the chair.

The Lucasian Professorship was established in 1663 and has been influential in the development of mathematics and its applications. It is traditionally part of Cambridge’s Department of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics. Over the centuries, the chair has attracted and produced many renowned scientists, illustrating the close ties between mathematics and the physical sciences at Cambridge.

Notable holders of the Lucasian Professorship include Isaac Newton, who first brought prominence to the chair in the late 17th century; Charles Babbage, known for early ideas in computing; Paul Dirac, a foundational figure in quantum theory; and Stephen Hawking, whose work on gravitation and cosmology gained broad public attention. The line of succession has contributed to advances in mathematics, physics, computer science, and related disciplines, often reinforcing the university’s role in scientific leadership.

Today, the Lucasian Professorship remains a prestigious academic post within Cambridge, continuing a tradition of high-level mathematical and scientific research. The position embodies a long-standing commitment to theoretical inquiry and its practical implications across multiple disciplines.