Developed methods to crystallize and purify enzymes, leading to a deeper understanding of their structure and function. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1946 for his work on enzymes and their role in biological processes.
John Howard Northrop, a renowned American biochemist, etched his name in the annals of scientific history by winning the 1946 Nobel Prize in Chemistry alongside James Batcheller Sumner and Wendell Meredith Stanley. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon them for their groundbreaking work on the isolation, crystallization, and study of enzymes, proteins, and viruses.
Born on July 5, 1891, in Yonkers, New York, Northrop's life was forever marked by tragedy when his father, John Isaiah Northrop, a zoologist and instructor at Columbia University, succumbed to a lab explosion just two weeks before his birth. This incident, however, did not deter Northrop from following in his father's footsteps, as he went on to earn his BA in 1912 and PhD in chemistry in 1915 from Columbia University.
During World War I, Northrop's research for the U.S. Chemical Warfare Service on the production of acetone and ethanol through fermentation laid the foundation for his future work on enzymes. This pivotal experience sparked his interest in the mysterious world of enzymes, a fascination that would shape the course of his illustrious career.
Northrop's seminal work was recognized with the Daniel Giraud Elliot Medal from the National Academy of Sciences in 1939 for his book, Crystalline Enzymes: The Chemistry of Pepsin, Trypsin, and Bacteriophage. He was elected a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1949, further testament to his enduring impact on the scientific community.
Northrop's professional life was largely spent at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research in New York City, where he was employed from 1916 until his retirement in 1961. During this period, he continued to contribute significantly to the field of biochemistry, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific landscape.
John Howard Northrop's pioneering work on enzymes, proteins, and viruses has had a profound impact on modern biochemistry, paving the way for numerous breakthroughs in fields such as medicine, pharmaceuticals, and genetics. His contributions have inspired generations of scientists, cementing his place as one of the most influential biochemists of the 20th century.
Born in 1901
Pioneering chemist and peace activist who won two unshared Nobel Prizes, one for chemistry and one for peace, for his groundbreaking work on the nature of the chemical bond and his tireless efforts to promote nuclear disarmament.
Born in 1893
A pioneering scientist who discovered deuterium, a heavy isotope of hydrogen, and later contributed to the discovery of many other elements, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe.
Born in 1884
A Nobel Prize-winning physicist and chemist who pioneered work in molecular structure, quantum mechanics, and X-ray diffraction, making significant contributions to our understanding of molecular interactions.
Born in 1875
Developed the concept of electron pairs and introduced the covalent bond, revolutionizing our understanding of chemical bonding.
Born in 1893
American chemist, academic, and diplomat who served as the first US Ambassador to West Germany, playing a key role in post-WWII international relations. He's also known for his educational reforms and advocacy for science education.
Born in 1912
A renowned chemist and academic who discovered and isolated ten transuranic elements, including plutonium, and was a leading figure in the development of nuclear energy. His work had a profound impact on our understanding of the periodic table and the properties of atomic nuclei.
Born in 1881
Developed groundbreaking theories on surface chemistry and discovered neon lighting, revolutionizing industries like advertising and entertainment.
