The John William Strutt, Lord Rayleigh Medal and Prize was awarded to John Greenlees Semple in 1929, marking a significant early recognition of his mathematical contributions. Born in Belfast in 1904, Semple developed a career defined by extensive academic research in algebraic geometry and long-term leadership roles within prominent British university departments throughout the twentieth century.
Academic Foundations and Early Training
Semple completed his early education at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution. He proceeded to Queen's University Belfast, where he graduated with First Class honours in mathematics in 1925. His studies continued at the University of Cambridge, specifically St John's College, from 1925 to 1927. He sat the Mathematical Tripos in 1927, earning a distinction, and completed his doctorate under the guidance of H. F. Baker in 1930.
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Following his doctoral work, Semple held a lectureship at the University of Edinburgh from 1929 to 1930. He served briefly as a fellow of St John's College before accepting the Chair of Pure Mathematics at Queen's University Belfast in 1930. During his six-year tenure in Belfast, he acted as Dean of the Faculty of the Arts. In 1936, he moved to King's College London to assume the Chair of Pure Mathematics. He later served as Head of Mathematics at King's College from 1956 until his retirement in 1969, a period that included overseeing the department's wartime relocation to Bristol.
Contributions to Geometry
Semple specialized in algebraic geometry. His academic impact is evidenced by his published scholarship, including the 1952 text Algebraic Projective Geometry, written with G. T. Kneebone. Later, in 1985, he published Introduction to Algebraic Geometry in collaboration with L. Roth. These works reflect his ongoing commitment to the field throughout his career in the United Kingdom.
Fast facts
- Born: 1904, Belfast
- Died: 1985, London
- Citizenship: United Kingdom
- Primary Field: Algebraic geometry
- Awards: John William Strutt, Lord Rayleigh Medal and Prize (1929)
- Alma Mater: Queen's University Belfast and St John's College, Cambridge
Questions readers ask
Which institutions employed John Greenlees Semple?
He worked at the University of Edinburgh, Queen's University Belfast, King's College London, and St John's College, Cambridge.
What subjects did he teach and research?
His primary field of work was algebraic geometry.
Achievements
- John William Strutt, Lord Rayleigh Medal and Prize — 1929
- Held posts at King's College London, University of Edinburgh and St John's College
- Fields: algebraic geometry