Dorothy Hodgkin

Date of Birth: May 12, 1910

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: July 29, 1994

Biography

Dorothy Mary Crowfoot Hodgkin was a pioneering British chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1964 for her work on the structure of important biochemical substances using X-ray crystallography. Born in Cairo, Egypt, Hodgkin developed a passion for chemistry at a young age. She attended Somerville College, Oxford, and later worked under the guidance of J.D. Bernal at Cambridge, where she honed her skills in X-ray crystallography. Hodgkin’s most significant contributions include the deciphering of the molecular structures of penicillin, vitamin B12, and insulin. Her work on penicillin was pivotal during World War II, while her research on vitamin B12 won her the Nobel Prize. She also made substantial contributions to the understanding of the structure of insulin, which provided a basis for advancements in diabetes treatment. Throughout her career, Hodgkin was a strong advocate for the use of science for peace and social justice. She was a member of numerous international science organizations and received numerous accolades and honorary degrees. Hodgkin was also known for her mentorship and support of young scientists, particularly women in the field of chemistry.

5 Interesting Facts about Dorothy Hodgkin

1. Dorothy Hodgkin was the first British woman to win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

2. She developed rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 28, which significantly affected her hands, but it did not deter her scientific work.

3. Hodgkin was awarded the Order of Merit in 1965, the second woman to receive the honor after Florence Nightingale.

4. She determined the structure of vitamin B12 in 1956, making a significant impact on understanding pernicious anemia.

5. Hodgkin’s work on the structure of insulin took over 30 years, showcasing her dedication and perseverance in scientific research.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Dorothy Hodgkin

1. “I was captured for life by chemistry and by crystals.”

2. “I think one should approach all these problems with a great deal of humility.”

3. “I was not conscious of leading a life of sacrifice, but of rather enjoying myself.”

4. “The detailed study of the structure of a molecule, particularly a large and complicated one, is the very essence of scientific pursuit.”

5. “I should not have been able to do this piece of work had I known how difficult it was going to be.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Dorothy Hodgkin did not accumulate significant personal wealth from her scientific endeavors. Her highest net worth is not well-documented, as her contributions were more academic and philanthropic in nature.