Selman Abraham Waksman

Selman Abraham Waksman was born on July 22, 1888, in Priluka, Russian Empire (now Ukraine). He would go on to become a notable biochemist and microbiologist whose research into the decomposition of organisms that live in the soil led to the discovery of streptomycin, the first antibiotic effective against tuberculosis. He immigrated to the United States in 1910 and became a naturalized citizen in 1916.

In 1925, Selman Waksman joined the faculty of Rutgers University in New Jersey, where he began his pioneering research into the biochemical activities of soil microbes. His work at Rutgers was crucial in leading to the discovery of several antibiotics, and his collaborations with pharmaceutical companies paved the way for the development of drugs that would go on to save countless lives.

On October 19, 1943, Selman Waksman, together with Albert Schatz, discovered streptomycin, the first antibiotic that was found to be effective against tuberculosis. This groundbreaking discovery was a major advancement in medical science as it provided a treatment for a disease that was the leading cause of death at the time. Streptomycin represented a significant leap forward in the battle against infectious diseases.

Selman Waksman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1952 for his discovery of streptomycin, the first antibiotic effective against tuberculosis. His contribution was particularly recognized for the impact streptomycin had in treating tuberculosis and other related diseases. Waksman’s achievements highlighted the importance of soil microbes in the development of antibiotics.

In 1954, Selman Waksman established the Waksman Foundation for Microbiology. The foundation was created to promote research in microbiology and to encourage studies into the field of soil microbiology, biochemistry, and other related areas. Through this foundation, Waksman aimed to ensure the continuation and advancement of microbial research, which had proved so useful in finding new antibiotics.

Selman Waksman published 'The Conquest of Tuberculosis' in 1958, a book documenting the history and development of tuberculosis treatments including his own contributions through the discovery of streptomycin. This publication provided an in-depth look at how scientific research and developments had drastically changed the treatment options available for tuberculosis patients.

In 1963, Selman Waksman retired from Rutgers University after a notably distinguished career. During his tenure, he had made significant contributions to the field of microbiology and biochemistry, notably the discovery of streptomycin. His work laid the groundwork for modern antibiotics and opened new frontiers in the study and application of microbial research.

Selman Waksman passed away on August 16, 1973, leaving behind a legacy of scientific achievements that transformed medicine and had a lasting impact on public health. His contributions to the discovery of antibiotics saved millions of lives worldwide. Waksman's work demonstrated the crucial role of research into natural compounds and their potential to address medical challenges.