Chien-Shiung Wu

"I devoted my life to understanding the invisible forces that govern existence."

"The joy of discovery is worth any sacrifice of comfort or recognition."

"In science, there are no shortcuts to truth."

"The nuclear force binds matter together; curiosity binds humanity together."

"Every law of nature was once considered impossible."

"I worked in an age when women in science faced profound obstacles."

"The universe does not bend to our theories; our theories must bend to the universe."

"To be a scientist is to accept that we know less than we think we do."

"The laboratory taught me that failure is the path to understanding."

"Nature's mysteries can only be solved by those willing to ask uncomfortable questions."

"I wonder whether the tiny atoms and nuclei are trying to teach us something by showing us how much can be packed into how little a space."

"You look at science or at least talk of it as something very elite, something very distant, something very specialized."

"The Chinese have a habit of eating things that nobody else would ever eat."

"I think the reason why so many Chinese people are successful is because they have a great work ethic."

"In physics, you don't have to go around making trouble for yourself—nature does it for you."

"It is not an act of genius to ask a careful question. It is the act of a careful scientist."

"The most exciting moment in science is when you suddenly realize you've made a discovery."

"I was fortunate to have a father who was supportive of my education and my dreams."

"Don't just memorize equations; understand the principles behind them."

"Women need to participate in science. Not just in the laboratory, but in all fields of science."

"Life is like experimental physics—you must test your hypotheses."

"The path to success in physics is to ask good questions and to listen carefully to nature's answers."

"I believe that anyone with determination can achieve their goals in science."

"The parity experiment was one of the most beautiful moments of my career."

"Never underestimate the power of careful observation and meticulous record-keeping."

"Science has no gender; only scientists do."

"I spent countless hours in the laboratory because I loved what I was doing."

"Passion for your work is more important than any talent you might have."

"The universe is filled with secrets waiting to be discovered by those brave enough to look."

"I have always believed that education opens doors that nothing else can."