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Scientific Innovators

Since George Washington's first gift of optical equipment, our alumni have consistently demonstrated proficiency in the sciences. Wartime efforts to develop synthetic rubber and nylon, as well as the pyrotechnic tools of warfare, have since led to peacetime applications in communications, air travel, and performance sportswear. Meet some of our innovative thinkers below.

George A. Bunting, Class of 1891

Pharmacist

Developed the skin cream, "Dr. Bunting's Sunburn Remedy," now known as Noxema

Edmund Spedden Graves '15

Introduced use of gas mask during WWI

William O. Baker '35

Developed polymers and plastics during WWII then led research team at Bell Labs, making advances in communications science and computing and aerospace technologies.

Joseph H. McLain '37

Pyrotechnic chemist

Developed 30 patents during WWII, including smoke grenades, underwater torches and warning flares

Robert K. Crane '42

Biochemist/physiologist

Uncovered the mechanism of biological pathways in human metabolism

Theodore Kurze '43

Neurosurgeon

Introduced use of microscope during surgery

Ralph Snyderman '61

Internationally recognized for his contributions in inflammation research; at biomedical technology firm Genentech, led the development and licensing of several novel therapeutics

John Conkling '65

Pyrotechnic chemist

Holds eight patents on pyrotechnic compositions and materials

Karen A. Johnson '68

Oncologist

Investigating use of raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor (ER) modulator, to reduce risk of breast cancer at the National Cancer Institute

Terumi Kohwi-Shigematsu '71

Staff scientist at Berkeley National Laboratory

Investigating DNA-binding proteins in human breast carcinomas

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