June 17

Sir Arthur Harden (1865–1940) was an English biochemist who made pioneering contributions to the study of enzyme action and fermentation. Working at the Institute of Chemistry and Physiology of Fermentation, he investigated the breakdown of sugars in yeast. For their collaborative research, Harden and Hans von Euler-Chelpin were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1929. Harden’s work laid foundational insights into metabolic pathways and enzyme kinetics. He also mentored numerous scientists and influenced the development of modern biochemistry.

Jack Parsons was born in 1914 and grew up fascinated by chemistry and rocket science. He co-founded the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and pioneered the development of solid rocket propellants. His work on innovative fuel formulations enabled the first successful American rocket launches. Parsons also co-founded Aerojet Engineering Corporation, which became a leader in rocket propulsion. Beyond his technical achievements, he engaged in unconventional experiments and writings that added to his legend. His untimely death in 1952 in a mysterious explosion cut short a visionary career. Parsons' contributions are recognized as foundational to the modern space program.

Paul Rostock was born in 1892 and pursued a career in medicine with a focus on surgery. He served as a professor of surgery at a leading German university, where he taught and mentored medical students. Rostock conducted research on surgical techniques and published academic papers that contributed to the field. He was respected for his clinical skill and dedication to improving patient care through systematic training and education. During his career, he helped modernize surgical curricula and hospital practices. Rostock continued to influence German medical academia until his death in 1956.

James Phinney Baxter III (1893-1975) was a prominent American historian specializing in U.S. diplomatic relations, especially between the United States and Russia. He served as president of Williams College from 1936 to 1961, guiding the institution through growth and academic innovation. Baxter authored influential studies on international relations and was president of the American Historical Association in 1951. He received numerous honors for his scholarship, including the Medlicott Medal. Baxter's leadership in higher education and historical research left a lasting impact on the study of American foreign policy. His writings continue to be referenced by scholars in diplomatic history.

Thomas Kuhn earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University and taught at leading institutions including MIT. In 1962, he published “The Structure of Scientific Revolutions,” revolutionizing the study of science. He argued that scientific progress occurs through paradigm shifts rather than gradual accumulation. Kuhn’s ideas influenced sociology, economics, and literary criticism beyond the sciences. He served as president of the History of Science Society and received numerous honors. His work continues to shape discussions on scientific methodology and theory change.

Donald J. Cram received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1987 for his work on molecular recognition. He earned his Ph.D. at Harvard University and spent most of his career at UCLA. Cram’s research in supramolecular chemistry opened new pathways in molecular design. He published extensively and mentored numerous future scientists and academics. His discoveries have applications in drug delivery, materials science, and chemical sensors. He passed away in 2001, leaving a profound legacy in organic chemistry.

Ralf Dahrendorf (1929-2009) was a prominent German-English sociologist, philosopher, and politician known for his work on class conflict theory and social liberalism. After earning his doctorate in philosophy, he served as a professor at universities in Germany and the United Kingdom, including the London School of Economics where he later became director. Dahrendorf entered politics as a member of the German Bundestag before joining the British House of Lords as Baron Dahrendorf. His scholarly writings, such as Class and Class Conflict in Industrial Society, influenced modern sociology and political science. He advocated for individual freedoms and democratic institutions throughout his career. Dahrendorf also held positions in various international organizations, including UNESCO and the European Commission. His interdisciplinary legacy continues to shape debates on social structures and governance.

Nathan Divinsky (1925–2012) was a professor of mathematics at the University of British Columbia specializing in combinatorial game theory. He authored numerous research papers and textbooks that advanced the study of mathematical games. A passionate chess player, Divinsky competed in national and international tournaments representing Canada. He served as president of the Canadian Chess Federation and promoted chess education across the country. His dual passions for mathematics and chess left a lasting impact on both academic and gaming communities.

Éric Dewailly (1954–2014) was a professor of epidemiology at Laval University and a leading researcher on contaminants in the Arctic. He conducted groundbreaking field studies on the impact of persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals among indigenous populations. Dewailly published over a hundred peer-reviewed articles and advised national and international agencies on public health policy. His community-based research in northern Quebec and Greenland combined rigorous science with cultural sensitivity. Mentoring numerous graduate students, he fostered a generation of environmental health researchers. Dewailly’s research expedition in Greenland ended tragically in 2014, but his work continues to influence Arctic health initiatives.

Arnold S. Relman (1923-2014) was an American physician, professor, and health policy expert. He served as editor-in-chief of The New England Journal of Medicine from 1977 to 1991. Relman was a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and contributed to research in internal medicine and medical ethics. He authored influential works on healthcare systems and was a leading voice in debates over universal healthcare. Relman co-founded the New England Journal of Medicine Foundation and influenced generations of physicians through his editorial leadership. His career was marked by rigorous scholarship and a commitment to patient-centered medical practice.