A member of the National Academy of Sciences and recipient of the National Medal of Science, Gates holds the Clark Leadership Chair in Science, a joint appointment in the Department of Physics and the School of Public Policy, and is a University System of Maryland Regents Professor. Gates was also elected Fellow of the American Physical Society in 1994, making him a dual Fellow of the two learned societies.

“I do not believe it could have been possible for me to have had this type of career without the support given to me by the University of Maryland,” Gates said. “The recognition from the AMS is especially sweet, and a beautiful way to honor my deceased grandfather and father, who did not graduate from high school but had an affection for mathematics.”

Gates is well known for his seminal work in supersymmetry, supergravity and string theory. He made milestone discoveries in the mathematics of particle theory and the geometry of gravity. In addition to his research achievements, Gates also distinguished himself as a powerful advocate for education and an ambassador of science worldwide.

“It is truly inspiring to see Professor Gates’ groundbreaking research and tireless public outreach honored by these prestigious organizations,” said Amitabh Varshney, dean of UMD’s College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences. “These honors are well-deserved given his pioneering discoveries that cross the boundaries of mathematics and physics.”

Gates’ Barry Prize citation reads: “In a career that joins pioneering academic contributions with public service, Sylvester James Gates, Jr. has advanced our understanding of space and time, the great cosmic scaffold of our world. He has expanded the boundaries of physics through his work on supersymmetry, supergravity, and superstring theory, and expanded its scope through education of the public, and advocacy for those seeking opportunity in the sciences. The Academy honors Dr. Gates’ distinguished contributions to humanity’s insight into the most basic elements that constitute our universe.”

“Professor Gates' remarkable career exemplifies both the spirit of the School of Public Policy and the best of what a university can offer, bringing scientific rigor to questions of policy and public purpose,” said Gustavo Flores-Macías, dean of UMD’s School of Public Policy. “His achievements reflect the far-reaching impact of his scholarship and leadership and remind us how deeply intertwined scientific discovery and societal progress truly are.”

Gates served on the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology under Barack Obama and was the vice president of the Maryland State Board of Education. He also received the American Institute of Physics’ 2021 Andrew Gemant Award, which recognizes contributions to the cultural, artistic or humanistic dimension of physics. 

He is the author (with Cathie Pelletier) of “Proving Einstein Right: The Daring Expeditions that Changed How We Look at the Universe,” a well-reviewed tale of scientific passion and pursuit in the early 20th century.

Gates joined the UMD physics faculty in 1984. He also held appointments at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Howard University, Dartmouth College and Brown University. He served as president of both the National Society of Black Physicists and the American Physical Society.

UMD Professor Emeritus of Government and Politics Charles E. Butterworth also received the 2025 Barry Prize. UMD was the only school with two faculty members to receive the award this year; only two other faculty members from public universities have received the award since its 2023 inception.