M.G.K. Menon

M.G.K. Menon

M.G.K. Menon was an Indian Physicist and Policy Maker from India. He was born on 28 August, 1928 and died in 22 Nov 2016.

1. Influences and Learning from Mentors

M. G. K. Menon gained profound insights into the scientific method from Nobel Laureate C. F. Powell. He learned from H. J. Bhabha how world-class research could be achieved in India through planning and strategic focus.

2. Contributions to Indian Science

Menon advanced India's position in fields like electronics and cosmic ray physics and has made significant contributions as a science administrator, vital for a developing country like India.

3. Early Life and Education

Born on August 28, 1928, in Mangalore, Menon pursued his early education across India before joining the University of Bristol in 1949, where he conducted pioneering research on elementary particles.

4. Research in Cosmic Rays

After returning to India in 1955, Menon joined the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and carried out extensive studies on cosmic rays at high altitudes and deep underground in the Kolar gold mines.

5. Awards and Personal Interests

Menon received numerous accolades, including the S. S. Bhatnagar Award and election as a Fellow of the Royal Society. Beyond science, he is passionate about painting, sculpture, and gardening.

6. Role as a Scientific Advisor

In 1986, Menon was appointed Scientific Advisor to the Prime Minister, reflecting his dedication and influence in advancing Indian science.