Professor Mercedes Richards (1955–2016) was a Jamaican-born astrophysicist who made pioneering contributions to the study of binary star systems. Inspired by her detective father and accountant mother, she pursued astronomy from an early age. She attended St. Hugh’s High School and then The University of the West Indies where she earned a B.Sc. in Physics in 1977. She moved to Canada to further her studies with a MS in Space Science from York University in 1979. In 1986 she graduated from the University of Toronto with a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Richards became known for applying spectroscopic tomography (a medical imaging technique) to map gas flows in binary stars. Her research also explored magnetic activity in stars and advanced data analysis methods for astrophysics. She held faculty positions at the University of Virginia and Pennsylvania State University, where she was deeply committed to teaching and mentoring, especially encouraging women and underrepresented groups in science. She led international collaborations, was active in professional societies, and co-founded programs for disadvantaged students.
Fluent in several languages and with wide cultural interests (violinist, poet, photographer), Richards balanced a rich personal and professional life. A Quaker, she was remembered for her generosity and service.
Richards received multiple honors, including the Gold Musgrave Medal from the Institute of Jamaica in 2008, a Fulbright Distinguished Chair in 2011 and the American Physical Society (APS) Woman Physicist of the Month in 2013.The St. Hugh’s Past Students’ Association made her an Honouree during their celebration of the School’s 110th Anniversary in 2009.
Professor Mercedes Richards
Created by Fiwi Admin Team
Physics
Deceased - Astrophysics Professor
Jamaica
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