Douglas Hugh Everett facts for kids

Douglas Hugh Everett (born 1916, died 2002) was a very smart British scientist. He was a chemist and wrote many academic books. His most important work was in a science area called thermodynamics. This is about how heat and energy work. He was also known for a famous quote: "Some people live in a dream world. Some face reality. And some turn one into the other."

His Life and Studies

Douglas was born in Hampton, London, on December 26, 1916. His father, Charles Everett, was a bus driver. Douglas went to Hampton-on-Thames Grammar School. He then studied Chemistry at the University of Reading. He finished his first degree in 1938.

He continued his studies at Balliol College, Oxford. He earned his first doctorate degree (PhD) in 1942. During his studies, he received special scholarships. These helped him pay for his education.

Working During Wartime

During the Second World War, from 1942 to 1945, Douglas worked for the War Office. He had special scientific duties. This meant he used his science skills to help with the war effort.

After the War

After the war, Douglas went back to Oxford University. He worked there as a special researcher. In 1947, he moved to Dundee University in Scotland. He taught Chemistry there.

Soon after, Oxford University offered him a teaching job. He almost went back right away. But Dundee University offered him an even better job. They made him a Professor in 1948. He stayed in Dundee until 1954.

In 1950, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This is a special group for top scientists in Scotland.

Life in Bristol

In 1954, Douglas moved to Bristol. He became a Professor of Chemistry at Bristol University. He later became the Dean of the Faculty of Science. This meant he was in charge of all the science departments. He also became a Pro-Vice-Chancellor. This is a very senior role at a university.

The University of Reading gave him an honorary doctorate in 1956. This was a special award for his great work. From 1976 to 1978, he was the president of the Faraday Society. This was an important group for physical chemistry.

Douglas Hugh Everett passed away in Bristol on June 25, 2002.

His Family

Douglas married Frances Elizabeth Jessop in 1942. They had two daughters, Susanna and Catharine (Kate). Frances passed away in 1999.