John Cowdery Kendrew

John Cowdery Kendrew was born on March 24, 1917, in Oxford, England. Kendrew went on to become a significant figure in the field of molecular biology, particularly known for his work on the structure of proteins using X-ray crystallography. His scientific journey and contributions laid the groundwork for a more profound understanding of molecular structures, culminating in a Nobel Prize in Chemistry. His early life in Oxford has been noted as influential, inspiring his pursuit of science.

In 1939, John Kendrew began his studies at the University of Cambridge, where he would later carry out much of his pioneering research. At Cambridge, Kendrew became an integral part of the emerging field of structural biology. His involvement at the university during this time positioned him at the forefront of scientific advancements, as he worked alongside other notable scientists, contributing to the burgeoning field of X-ray crystallography of biological molecules.

After World War II, John Kendrew joined the Cavendish Laboratory at Cambridge in 1946. Here, he worked with Max Perutz on the structure of hemoglobin and myoglobin, and he began applying principles of X-ray crystallography to proteins. This period marked the start of Kendrew's most recognized contributions to science, as he developed methods that would later unravel the structures of complex biological molecules.

In November 1958, John Kendrew published the structure of myoglobin, the first protein structure to be determined at atomic resolution using X-ray crystallography. The publication of this model was a landmark achievement in biochemistry, opening the door for other researchers to undertake similar structural analyses. Kendrew's work provided crucial insights into the three-dimensional structures of proteins, significantly advancing the field of molecular biology.

On October 10, 1962, John Kendrew was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, shared with Max Perutz, for their studies of the structures of globular proteins. This recognition underscored their successful work in determining the structures of hemoglobin and myoglobin using X-ray crystallography, revolutionizing the field of structural biology and setting the stage for advancements in biochemical and medical research.

In February 1974, John Kendrew played a crucial role in the establishment of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Heidelberg, Germany. As the first director of EMBL, Kendrew was instrumental in providing a collaborative environment for European scientists to conduct leading-edge research in molecular biology. The laboratory became a hub for innovation in biological research, fostering international collaborations and scientific excellence.

John Kendrew was knighted in 1981 for his services to science, particularly in recognition of his contributions to molecular biology and his role in establishing the European Molecular Biology Laboratory. This honor reflected the significant impact his work had on the scientific community and his leadership in fostering international cooperation in scientific research.

John Kendrew retired from his position at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory in 1990. During his tenure, he had established a dynamic and collaborative scientific environment at EMBL. His retirement marked the end of a notable career in administrating scientific research in Europe. However, his legacy continued as the EMBL remained a leading institution for molecular biology research.

John Cowdery Kendrew passed away on August 23, 1997, in Cambridge, England. His death marked the end of a distinguished career in science, during which he had made numerous contributions to molecular biology, from pioneering studies in protein structure determination to promoting scientific collaboration across Europe. Kendrew's work left an enduring legacy that continues to influence the field of structural biology.