Frank Young (biochemist) facts for kids

Sir Frank George Young (born March 25, 1908 – died September 20, 1988) was a very important biochemist. He was famous for his research on diabetes. He also became the first leader, called Master, of Darwin College, Cambridge.

Early Life and Education

Young was born in London, England. He went to Alleyn's School in Dulwich. Later, he studied at University College, London. In 1929, he finished his studies in chemistry and physics. After that, he continued his research in biochemistry at the same university.

Sir Frank's Career

Becoming a Professor

Sir Frank Young started his research on diabetes. He worked at the University of Aberdeen and the University of Toronto. When he was 34, he became a full professor. This was in 1942 at St Thomas's Hospital Medical School in London.

He quickly moved up in his career. In 1945, he became a professor at University College London. Then, in 1949, he was chosen for a very important role. He became the third Sir William Dunn Professor of Biochemistry at Cambridge University. He held this job for 26 years. In the same year, he also became a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a big honor for scientists.

Leadership at Cambridge

At Cambridge, Young was a Fellow at Trinity Hall, Cambridge. In 1964, he became the first Master of a new college. This college was called Darwin College, Cambridge. He led Darwin College until 1976. One of his students at Cambridge was Sir Philip Randle, who also became a famous scientist.

Working for Science and Health

Sir Frank Young worked with many important groups. These groups were both in the UK and around the world. From 1950 to 1954, he was part of the Medical Research Council (UK). This group helps fund medical research. He also helped start the British Nutrition Foundation in 1967. He was its President from 1970 to 1976. This group focuses on healthy eating.

He also advised the government on many topics. He was on a committee about food and health from 1957 to 1980. He also advised on how doctors are trained. He worked with international science groups too.

Focus on Diabetes

Sir Frank was very interested in diabetes. He was a Vice-President of the British Diabetic Association from 1948. He led the European Association for the Study of Diabetes from 1965 to 1968. He was also President of the International Diabetes Federation from 1970 to 1973. These roles show his dedication to understanding and fighting diabetes.

Knighthood

In 1973, Sir Frank Young was given a special honor. He was knighted for his great work in biochemistry. This meant he could use the title "Sir" before his name.