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