Ralph Gardner-Chavis (born December 3, 1922) was an African American researcher, chemist, and educator.

He is best known for his involvement in the Manhattan Project, where his research on plutonium would be used to develop the Fat Man atomic bomb.

The school attempted to place him in a food service position, which he felt was not his true goal in life.

[5] Gardner-Chavis was part of a small handful of black scientists who dedicated their time and effort to the Manhattan Project.

His research in plutonium led to the development in America's first atomic bomb, the Fat Man, which was used to end WW II in 1945.

[1][3] Despite Gardner-Chavis's involvement with the Manhattan project, he had trouble finding a job as a chemist after the war ended.

While working for the Molecular Technology Corporation, he became a member of their board of directors and served as a vice president of research.

While continuously working on his research in molecular technology and catalysis, Gardner-Chavis gained emeritus status at CSU.