Blackman graduated from the
Harley School, and then obtained undergraduate degrees in physics and mathematics from the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He worked at the
General Electric Research Laboratory during undergraduate summers. He subsequently completed a Master of Advanced Study in mathematics (applied math/theoretical physics,
Part III of the Mathematical Tripos) at
Cambridge University, residing at
Trinity College, Cambridge, followed by a Phd at
Harvard University working in theoretical astrophysics with
George B. Field. He was a postdoctoral fellow at the
Institute of Astronomy, Cambridge of
Cambridge University and in physics at
Caltech before joining the department of physics and astronomy at the
University of Rochester. Blackman has made diverse contributions to theoretical astrophysics through 300+ research publications on topics that include stellar and planetary astrophysics, molecular clouds, planetary nebulae, accretion, jets, particle acceleration, turbulence, laboratory astrophysics, and relativistic astrophysics—including
gamma-ray bursts and
active galactic nuclei. He is particularly known for work in
plasma astrophysics involving magnetic fields, and principles of astrophysical
dynamo theory—the latter being a theory of magnetic field origin in astrophysical objects such as
galaxies,
stars,
accretion disks and
planets. Blackman has also worked on the mechanics and biomechanics of helmet protection against closed
traumatic brain injury, identifying protection deficiencies in standard helmets for both head impacts and blast exposure. == Appointments and awards==