This biography chronicles the life and scientific work of the down-to-earth New Zealander who became one of the legendary pioneers of subatomic physics. Rutherford's three major discoveries-including his 1912 revelation that atoms contained nucleuses-created the field of nuclear physics and helped shape modern science. The book is part of a series of scientific biographies for young adults highlighting personalities and thought processes leading to scientific discoveries. Heilbron is a senior research fellow at Worcester College