Remembering Chen Ning Yang: A Legacy in Physics

Chen Ning Yang, a Nobel Prize-winning theoretical physicist, passed away on October 18, 2025, in Beijing at the age of 103. His death was confirmed by Tsinghua University, where he had a long-standing academic affiliation. Yang was renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to theoretical physics, particularly in the areas of parity non-conservation and gauge theory.

Chinese Physicist Chen Ning Yang, Nobel Laureate, Dies at 103Scientific community, netizens pay tribute to late Yang Chen-NingWORLD: Nobel Prize-winning physicist Chen Ning Yang dies at…Nobel Physicist Chen Ning Yang Dies at 103Nobel laureate Chen-ning Yang, creator of Yang-Mills theory, dies at 103Public pays tribute to late Nobel laureate Chen Ning Yang at Tsinghua UniversityDawnCUHK Communications and Public Relations Office

Born on October 1, 1922, in Hefei, Anhui Province, Yang's early life was influenced by his father's role as a mathematics professor at Tsinghua University. After earning his master's degree from Tsinghua in 1944, he moved to the United States to pursue further studies. Yang collaborated with Tsung-Dao Lee, and in 1956, they proposed that the weak nuclear force violated the conservation of parity, a theory that was experimentally confirmed the following year. This work earned them the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957, marking a significant milestone as the first Chinese-born laureates.

Chinese Physicist Chen Ning Yang, Nobel Laureate, Dies at 103DawnWORLD: Nobel Prize-winning physicist Chen Ning Yang dies at…Scientific community, netizens pay tribute to late Yang Chen-NingNobel laureate Chen-ning Yang, creator of Yang-Mills theory, dies at 103Nobel Physicist Chen Ning Yang Dies at 103Public pays tribute to late Nobel laureate Chen Ning Yang at Tsinghua UniversityNew York Times

Yang's collaboration with Robert Mills led to the development of the Yang-Mills theory in 1954, which became foundational for the Standard Model of particle physics. This theory describes the interactions of fundamental forces and particles, reshaping modern physics.

Nobel laureate Chen-ning Yang, creator of Yang-Mills theory, dies at 103Chinese Physicist Chen Ning Yang, Nobel Laureate, Dies at 103Scientific community, netizens pay tribute to late Yang Chen-NingNew York TimesNobel Physicist Chen Ning Yang Dies at 103CUHK Communications and Public Relations Office

After a distinguished career in the United States, Yang returned to China in 2003, where he became a professor at Tsinghua University. He played a pivotal role in advancing scientific research and education in China, fostering international collaboration and mentoring future generations of physicists. Yang's contributions were recognized not only for their scientific merit but also for their impact on China's scientific community.

WORLD: Nobel Prize-winning physicist Chen Ning Yang dies at…DawnChinese Physicist Chen Ning Yang, Nobel Laureate, Dies at 103Public pays tribute to late Nobel laureate Chen Ning Yang at Tsinghua UniversityCUHK Communications and Public Relations OfficeScientific community, netizens pay tribute to late Yang Chen-Ning

Following Yang's passing, tributes poured in from universities and scientific institutions across China. Tsinghua University established a memorial room to honor his legacy, where thousands of mourners paid their respects. The China Association for Science and Technology highlighted Yang's role in bridging scientific communities, particularly during his visit to China in 1971, which helped re-establish scientific exchanges between China and the United States.

Public pays tribute to late Nobel laureate Chen Ning Yang at Tsinghua University

Yang's wife, Weng Fan, expressed her belief that he felt at peace at the time of his passing, reflecting on his profound contributions to science and education. Many universities, including Peking University and Nankai University, released statements commemorating his influence and legacy.

Public pays tribute to late Nobel laureate Chen Ning Yang at Tsinghua University

Tsinghua University described Yang as "one of the greatest physicists of the 20th century," emphasizing his revolutionary contributions to modern physics and his dedication to nurturing talent in China. The university's Vice-Chancellor noted that Yang's impact on academia and science would continue to inspire future generations.

Scientific community, netizens pay tribute to late Yang Chen-Ning

• “My life has been a circle, where I started out from a point, travelled a long way, and finally returned to where I came from,” — Chen Ning Yang

Dawn

• “In an official tribute, Tsinghua University praised his immense impact: “Professor Yang is one of the greatest physicists of the 20th century, having made revolutionary contributions to the development of modern physics…” — Tsinghua University

Chinese Physicist Chen Ning Yang, Nobel Laureate, Dies at 103

Chen Ning Yang's passing marks the end of an era for theoretical physics. His work not only advanced scientific understanding but also inspired countless individuals in China and around the world. As the scientific community reflects on his legacy, Yang's contributions will undoubtedly continue to influence the pursuit of knowledge and the development of future scientific endeavors.

WORLD: Nobel Prize-winning physicist Chen Ning Yang dies at…