James Edward Gordon (August 9, 1913 – June 26, 1998) was a prominent British materials scientist and biomechanical engineer, recognized as one of the founders of materials science. Born in Kendal, Cumbria, England, he graduated with a degree in naval architecture from the University of Glasgow.
During World War II, Gordon worked at the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE), focusing on composite materials and plastics. After the war, he joined Tube Investments (TI) and later became head of a new branch at the Explosives Research and Development Establishment (ERDE), where he advanced fiber-reinforced components for aircraft and rockets.
Gordon authored several influential books on structures and materials, including The New Science of Strong Materials or Why You Don’t Fall Through the Floor (1968), Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down (1978), and The Science of Structures and Materials (1988). These works have been translated into multiple languages and are widely used in educational institutions.
Throughout his career, Gordon received several accolades for his contributions to engineering and materials science, including the British Silver Medal from the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Griffith Medal from the Materials Science Club. His legacy continues through his impactful research and writings in the field of materials science.
