Alan Lightman

On-Camera host and co-writer of searching

Alan Lightman is an American writer, physicist, and social entrepreneur. He is also the author of numerous books, both nonfiction and fiction, including Einstein’s Dreams, an international bestseller. His essays concern the intersection of science, philosophy, and theology and have been twice named by the New York Times as among the best dozen essays of the year, in any category. The Washington Post has called Lightman “the poet laureate of science writers.” Oprah described him as “A Renaissance man for a time such as this.”

In 2005, Lightman founded Harpswell, a nonprofit organization devoted to empowering young women leaders in Southeast Asia.

In SEARCHING, Alan investigates how key findings of modern science help us find our bearings in the cosmos. In the series and across this site, you’ll find Alan’s ruminations on science, philosophy, and more; and his reflections on being a first-time television host. Read Alan's story about how it all began.