James Wood (mathematician)

James Wood (1760 – 1839) was an English mathematician and Master of St John's College, Cambridge.

Wood was born in Goosnargh, Lancashire. He was educated at Hawkshead Grammar School and St John's College, Cambridge, graduating as Senior Wrangler in 1782. He became a Fellow of St John's in 1783.

He served as Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge from 1788 to 1822. In 1815 he became Master of St John's College, a position he held until his death.

Wood is best known for his mathematical textbooks, which were widely used at Cambridge University. Notable works include:

• Elements of Algebra (1795)
• The Principles of Mechanics (1796)
• Elements of Optics (1799)

His textbooks were known for their clear and rigorous exposition of mathematical principles and played a significant role in the development of mathematical education in England. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1798.

He died in Cambridge in 1839.