1773-1829

English physicist and physician who is primarily remembered for his contributions to the wave theory of light. A remarkably versatile scientist, Young is also honored as the founder of modern physiological optics. His biomedical research included studies of astigmatism, the problem of refraction, color perception, and the mechanism by which the eye accommodates and focuses light rays on the retina of the eye. In addition, Young contributed to the decipherment of Egyptian hieroglyphics, particularly the Rosetta Stone.