David Keith

David W. Keith, a distinguished scientist bridging physics, climate science, and public policy, has established himself as a leading voice in climate engineering and environmental technology. After earning his Ph.D. in Experimental Physics from MIT in 1991, where he created the first working atom interferometer, he has built an extraordinary career spanning groundbreaking scientific achievements and practical climate solutions. His early work included developing a high-accuracy Fourier-transform spectrometer for NASA's atmospheric measurements. As founder and board member of Carbon Engineering, he pioneers direct air capture technology to combat climate change. His academic career has included positions at Harvard University as Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Public Policy, where he founded and directed the Solar Geoengineering Research Program. Recently moving to the University of Chicago in 2023, he leads a major program studying geoengineering with up to ten faculty members. Keith's contributions have earned him recognition as one of TIME magazine's Heroes of the Environment, while his research continues to shape global discussions on climate intervention strategies and environmental policy.