Transhistorical Narratives: Scientific Discovery Beyond the Bounds of Identity

Transgender and nonbinary physicists have always existed, but their stories are notably absent from many textbooks and archives. Even when their voices are present, the primary focus is often their gender identity; their scientific contributions are often minimized, if discussed at all. It’s important to talk about their relative absence from the history of physics and fill these gaps in the historical record. By illuminating these histories, physicists will be better equipped to work with their trans+ colleagues and tackle transphobia and lack of gender diversity in the workplace.  

I will discuss my work editing the Wikipedia articles of notable trans+ physicists and creating a style guide with best practices for writing about these scientists. Then I’ll feature the career of Alan Hart, a pioneer in medical physics who has previously only been highlighted in gender studies research due to his trans identity. Finally, I’ll discuss the importance of ongoing work documenting trans+ physicists in the present day via oral histories. Transgender and nonbinary physicists have done more than just defy gender norms—they have enriched their field with the diversity of their ideas and scientific discoveries.