help for seeking name of esteemed person in this catagory

Dear forum,

I have run myself against a brick wall trying to "retrieve" a name that corresponds to mathmatical matters most likely related to the science of engineering, possible physics, or significant equations.  This name (last name) starts with either r or s, no more than 2 syllables, and is German in origin(from recollection).  Maybe from 30's... not sure.  It relates to a dream and I didn't write it down but did look it up on the internet and the name was there (right after the dream).  Dumb me, for not logging this in journal, but feel it is very important.  Any comments, advice greatfully appreciated, thank you.