Percy Lavon Julian
1899–1975 (age 76)
Chemist
Biography
Percy Lavon Julian rose from humble beginnings to become a nationally renowned chemist, breaking barriers as an African American scientist while pioneering large-scale synthesis of medicinal compounds.
He cultivated a welcoming lab community, encouraged students from underrepresented backgrounds, and made philanthropy a part of his life so that others might follow in his footsteps.