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Birth
According to Britannica John Charlton Polkinghorne was born to a “quietly devout Church of England family” and his mathematical ability was recognized very early. This aptitude would be evident as he would go on to receive a Doctorate in Quantum Field theory by age 26. -
Receives Bachelors in Mathematics
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Received Masters in Mathematics
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Received Doctorate in Quantum Field Theory
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Appointed Lecturer in Mathematical Physics at University of Edinburgh
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Appointed Lecturer in Mathematical Physics at University of Cambridge
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Professor of Mathematical Physics at University of Cambridge
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Received Doctorate in Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics
Recognized this same year for his creation of mathematical models to calculate the paths of quantum particles. This would be Polkinghornes crescendo in the world of particle physics as a mere five years later he would resign his work in the world of quantum physics to study theology and formulate more clearly his opinions on how Christianity and Science can have a coherent narrative in unison. -
Resigns post at Cambridge and Begins Theological Studies
This would mark the major transition in Polkinghornes career where he transitions from the world of research in physics to the world of Theology, though his writings would always be informed by his previous career. -
Ordained as Preist in the Anglican Church
After a lauded and fruitful career in physics Polkinghorne decided his research was done and moved into the world of Theology. -
Published "The Way the World Is"
This would be Polkinghornes first published work in which he explores the ways in science and religion relate with many others to follow. In this work in particular he gives the "Christian Perspective of a Scientist". -
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President of Queens' College in Cambridge
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Published Quantum World
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Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II
John Polkinghorne was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to science, religion, learning and medical ethics. Though he was knighted, as an ordained priest he did not style himself as Sir John Polkinghorne. -
Received Templeton Prize
Received Templeton Prize, which is an award granted to a living person every year "whose exemplary achievements advance Sir John Templeton's philanthropic vision: harnessing the power of the sciences to explore the deepest questions of the universe and humankind's place and purpose within it." Polkinghorne received this for Progress Toward Research or Discoveries About Spiritual Realities. -
Published Quantum Physics and Theology: An Unexpected Kinship
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Published Questions of Truth
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The Suffering Universe and the Links with Evolution
Interview with British Academy 1 June 2012
Between 11:12-13:34 Polkinghorne answers a question about The Suffering Universe and the links with evolution. Here he elaborates that the more science knows about how the universe works the more we see that some of the things that cause suffering in the world are a package deal using genetic mutation as an example. Genetic mutation allowed for bacteria, but also allows for cancer. -
Death