Sara McMurry née Barrett obtained her B.Sc. from Bedford College, University of London, before obtaining a doctorate in elementary particle theory from the University of Oxford. In 1968, she joined Trinity College Dublin as a Lecturer in Applied Mathematics, later becoming Senior Lecturer in both the Schools of Mathematics and Physics. She was the first female lecturer in either physics or mathematics at Trinity.
In the portrait, Dr McMurry is pictured with one of her books entitled Quantum Mechanics. McMurry was renowned for her scientific lucidity and the care she took with her approach to teaching. She also wrote a book on Mathematics as a Language, aimed at enhancing students' understanding of mathematics through reasoning rather than memorization.
The work was unveiled by the artist and School of Physics staff member Christopher Smith. At the unveiling, Fellow Emeritus, Dr Eric Finch spoke of Dr McMurry’s significant contribution during her time in Trinity College Dublin. The reception also included a piece penned by Prof. Ignatius McGovern and performed by Prof. Stefan Hutzler. Dr Mc. Murry’s sons were also present to celebrate the event.
Head of School, Prof. Jonathan Coleman said “This portrait highlights Dr Sara McMurry’s significant contribution to Trinity and the ground that she broke as the first female staff member in the School. On behalf of the School, I wish to thank to Dr McMurry for all of her years of service to Trinity research and education, as well as to Christopher Smith his work on the portrait. “
Pictured with the new School of Physics portrait (L to R): Christopher Smith (artist, School of Physics staff), Dr Eric Finch (Fellow Emeritus, School of Physics), Dr Sara McMurry (Fellow Emeritus, School of Physics) and Prof. Jonathan Coleman (Head of School, School of Physics).