Keith Lucas (neuroscientist) facts for kids
Keith Lucas (born 8 March 1879 in Greenwich, died 5 October 1916 on Salisbury Plain) was a brilliant British scientist. He did important early work studying the brain and nerves, a field called neuroscience, at Trinity College, Cambridge.
He was the son of Francis Robert and Katharine Mary Lucas. Keith went to Rugby School and then to Trinity College, Cambridge. He finished his studies in natural sciences in 1901 with top marks. In 1902, he traveled to New Zealand to help map the depths of lakes. He became a special member of Trinity College in 1904. Later, he taught about how the body works (physiology) and other natural sciences.
A Scientist's Achievements
Keith Lucas was known for his amazing scientific discoveries. In 1913, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very high honor for scientists in Britain. His colleagues said he made big steps forward in understanding how nerves get excited. They also noted that he was very clever at inventing new equipment for his experiments.
Serving During Wartime
When the First World War began, Keith Lucas joined the army as a Captain. He was part of the Royal Flying Corps, which was the early air force. He worked at Royal Aircraft Establishment in Farnborough. His job was to do special experiments to help planes fly better. He focused on improving how pilots found their way (aerial navigation) and making better compasses for airplanes.
A Tragic End
Keith Lucas believed that if he learned to fly a plane himself, he could do even better research. So, he started taking flying lessons at Upavon. Sadly, on 5 October 1916, a terrible accident happened. His plane, a BE2c, crashed in the air with another plane over Salisbury Plain. Both Keith Lucas and the other pilot, 2nd Lieutenant Geoffrey Jacques, died instantly.
Keith Lucas is buried at Aldershot Military Cemetery. His name is also remembered on the war memorial in Fen Ditton, Cambridgeshire.
His Family's Legacy
After Keith Lucas passed away, his wife, Alys, changed their family name to Keith-Lucas. She also put together a book about his life, including memories from people who knew him and a list of his scientific papers. Keith and Alys had three sons. All three of their sons grew up to become professors, continuing a family tradition of learning and teaching. Their names were Alan Keith-Lucas, David Keith-Lucas, and Bryan Keith-Lucas.
