Works of Art Collection

R.W. James Building

Named after Reginald William James (1891-1964), Professor of Physics (1937-1956). He acted as Principal and Vice- Chancellor during the absence of T.B. Davie in 1953 and 1955 and after Davie's death, from 1956-1957. James came to UCT in 1937 already known for producing excellent work in X-
ray crystallography. This field soon became the focus in the physics department and James earned a reputation as a brilliant teacher. His achievements as both researcher and teacher paved the way for his becoming Dean of Science in 1948 and in the mid-1950s he became acting vice- chancellor. He focussed heavily on postgraduate research and investigative physics, promoting research and the reputation of the department. This, coupled with his teaching skills which were instrumental in producing three Nobel prize winners (Theiler, Cormack and Klug), and six physics professors, make him an important figure in UCT’s history. The Physics Department became, and remains, one of world renown. Source: Origins of Names of Buildings at the University of Cape Town, Mr M. Musemwa (Department of History UCT,
1993). Phillips, H. 1993.The University of Cape Town 1918-48, the formative years. Cape Town: UCT Press.

9 University Avenue North,Upper Campus, Rondebosch

Upper

-33.95561

18.461712

122

1220

Owned