J. Robert Oppenheimer was born in New York on April 22, 1904, in a family of German-Jewish immigrants. His father, Julius Oppenheimer, was a successful businessman, while his mother, Ella, was an artist. Robert’s family did not belong to any synagogue, but the values of the Ethical Culture Society shaped his upbringing. This environment played a significant role in developing his intellectual curiosity and moral compass. However, it also left him with a complex relationship with his Jewish identity.

Oppenheimer was a brilliant student from the beginning of his academic journey. He started his studies at the Ethical Culture School in New York, where he had a reputation as a very clever boy. After graduating in 1921, he planned to attend Harvard University, but severe dysentery delayed his enrollment. Nevertheless, he ultimately began his studies at Harvard in 1922.

At Harvard, Oppenheimer immersed himself in a wide range of subjects, like literature, chemistry, and philosophy. He was a versatile personality. However, his social life at Harvard was challenging, and he often felt isolated. His intense focus on academics sometimes made him seem aloof, and he struggled to form friendships with his peers. After Harvard, Oppenheimer continued his education in Europe, first at the University of Cambridge and later at the University of Göttingen. At Cambridge, he initially faced difficulties. In the laboratory, Oppenheimer realized that his strengths lay in theoretical rather than experimental physics. This realization was crucial, as it led him to focus on theoretical physics, a field in which he would later make significant contributions.

During his time in Europe, Oppenheimer met several key figures who would greatly influence his career. One of the most notable was Niels Bohr, a renowned Danish physicist known for his contributions to quantum mechanics. Bohr’s gentle demeanor and deep understanding of physics left a lasting impression on Oppenheimer. In his approach, Bohr combined rigorous mathematical reasoning with a philosophical understanding of nature. It was something that greatly resonated with Oppenheimer and guided his future work.

At Göttingen, Oppenheimer completed his doctoral thesis on quantum mechanics under Max Born, another influential physicist. This period was vital in shaping Oppenheimer’s scientific career as he began to establish himself as a leading theoretical physicist. It was also different in terms of socializing. In contrast to Cambridge, at Göttingen, Oppenheimer felt a pleasant camaraderie with his fellow students.