Century-Old Pitt Physicist Keeps Working
Jim Choyke, a 100-year-old emeritus professor in Pitt's physics and astronomy department, spent decades studying silicon carbide—the semiconductor material underpinning AI, quantum computing, and advanced batteries. He moved to Pittsburgh in 1952 for a Westinghouse role, joined Pitt in 1974, and says he never believed in retirement because he loves physics. His work and mentorship helped advance the field and inspire a generation of scientists, and he continues to work and teach from his Pitt office.