Harden M. McConnell facts for kids

Harden M. McConnell (born July 18, 1927 – died October 8, 2014) was an American scientist who studied physical chemistry. He won many important awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Wolf Prize. He was also chosen to be a member of the National Academy of Science.

Education and Early Career

Harden McConnell earned his first degree in chemistry from George Washington University in 1947. He then got his Ph.D. (a higher degree) in chemistry from the California Institute of Technology in 1951.

After finishing his studies, he worked as a research chemist at Shell Development Company. In 1956, he became a chemistry professor at the California Institute of Technology. Later, in 1964, he moved to Stanford University to continue his work as a professor. He was even the head of the chemistry department at Stanford for a few years. He retired from teaching in 2000.

Amazing Discoveries and Research

Dr. McConnell did very important research that helped us understand how molecules work. From 1955 to 1965, he studied how the tiny parts of molecules affect their magnetic signals.

Later, he created a special method called "spin-labeling." Imagine you want to see how a tiny part of a cell moves. Spin-labeling lets scientists attach a special "label" to proteins or membranes. This label acts like a tiny magnet. By watching how this tiny magnet moves, scientists can learn about the structure and movement of these important parts of living things.

His work showed that these spin labels could help us understand how fats (lipids) move around in cell membranes. He proved that cell membranes are not stiff, but are actually quite fluid, meaning things can move within them.

Dr. McConnell also studied how our bodies recognize invaders like viruses or bacteria. He created special models of cell surfaces using layers of fat. These models helped scientists understand how our immune system identifies and fights off sickness.

In 1983, Dr. McConnell started a company called Molecular Devices Corporation. This company made tools for studying chemicals and finding new medicines. It grew very large and helped many scientists.

Many scientists who worked with Dr. McConnell celebrated his 65th birthday at Stanford University. They also wrote special articles about his work. This shows how much he influenced the fields of chemistry and biology.

Awards and Special Recognitions

Dr. McConnell received the Wolf Prize in Chemistry in 1983/84. He won it for his studies on how molecules are built using magnetic signals, and for creating and using the spin-labeling method in biology.

He also received many other awards and honours throughout his career:

About His Life

Harden M. McConnell was born on July 18, 1927, in Richmond, Virginia. When he was about 12 years old, he found a box of copper sulfate crystals in his basement. This discovery sparked his interest in science, especially chemistry. He passed away on October 8, 2014.