Exeter scientists pay tribute to Stephen Hawking

World renowned professor Stephen Hawking has died aged 76.

Roy Sambles, Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Exeter, said: “Stephen Hawking was a quite remarkable scientist and an inspiration to so many.

“His deep insight into the functioning of the universe has been extraordinary as has been his humour and humanity, despite being so limited by the effects of motor neurone disease.”

Professor Nathan Mayne, Senior Lecturer in Astrophysics, said: "I am extremely sad to hear the news of Professor Stephen Hawking's death. 

“Not only was he an amazing scientist who changed our perceptions of the world around us, but he was also an inspirational figure. 

“I have read countless applications from students applying to study physics citing Professor Hawking's books and lectures as their inspiration.”

Stephen Lines, Research Fellow in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, said: "The sadness of Professor Hawking's passing is not just the void left behind by his incredible intellect and ability to rationalise our existence in the universe, but the loss of an extraordinarily inspirational human that accomplished so much in the face of such adversity.”