Manfred Eigen was a German biophysical chemist and Nobel laureate, born on May 9, 1927, in Bochum, Germany, and passed away on February 6, 2019. He is widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in the field of chemical kinetics and reaction mechanisms. Eigen made significant contributions to understanding complex biochemical reactions and the fundamental dynamics behind them.
Eigen received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967, together with Ronald Norrish and George Porter, for their studies in the field of flash photolysis, a technique used to observe and study the ultrafast reactions occurring during chemical processes. His work provided valuable insights into the rates of chemical reactions and the transition states involved.
In addition to his Nobel Prize-winning research, Eigen also made remarkable contributions to the field of molecular biology, particularly in understanding the kinetics of enzyme reactions and DNA replication. His investigations into the behavior of enzymes and their inhibitors laid the foundation for understanding how they function and how drugs can inhibit their activity.
Apart from his scientific achievements, Eigen was known for his interdisciplinary approach, bridging the gap between physics, chemistry, and biology. He emphasized the importance of quantitative measurements and mathematical models in the study of biological systems.
Overall, Manfred Eigen was a visionary scientist and an inspiration to the scientific community. His work revolutionized our understanding of chemical reactions and provided a solid theoretical foundation for the investigation of biological processes. His legacy continues to impact various scientific disciplines, serving as a roadmap for future research.
