Tsung-Dao Lee, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who shattered a seemingly unshakeable law of nature, passed away on December 1, 2021, at the age of 96. Lee, known for his revolutionary work in particle physics, is remembered for his profound contributions to our understanding of the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

Born in China in 1926, Lee’s early academic career was marked by intellectual curiosity and a deep passion for theoretical physics. He earned his doctorate from the University of Chicago in 1950, marking the beginning of a brilliant scientific journey.

Lee’s most significant contribution came in the mid-1950s, when he and his collaborator, Chen Ning Yang, challenged a fundamental principle in physics: the conservation of parity. This law, believed to be immutable, stated that physical laws should operate the same way regardless of whether the system is mirrored.

Lee and Yang, however, pointed out that this law had never been tested in weak interactions, the forces governing radioactive decay. Through their theoretical work, they predicted that parity was not conserved in weak interactions. This groundbreaking concept, later experimentally verified, overturned a cornerstone of physics and earned them the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957.

Beyond his work on parity violation, Lee made significant contributions to various areas of physics, including particle physics, statistical mechanics, and nuclear physics. He held prestigious academic positions at Columbia University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific community.

Lee’s legacy extends beyond his scientific achievements. He was a dedicated teacher and mentor, inspiring countless young scientists across the globe. His unwavering commitment to academic excellence and his tireless pursuit of knowledge continue to inspire generations of physicists.

Tsung-Dao Lee’s passing marks the end of an era in physics. He leaves behind a profound legacy of scientific innovation and a deep understanding of the fundamental forces that govern our universe. His work will continue to shape the future of physics, serving as a testament to the power of curiosity, intellectual rigor, and a willingness to challenge the established order.