Arthur Mourant

Arthur Mourant

Born	11 April 1904
Birth place	Jersey, Channel Islands
Died	29 August 1994
Nationality	British
Known for	Blood group research

Arthur Ernest Mourant (11 April 1904 – 29 August 1994) was a renowned British scientist known for his pioneering work in haematology and anthropology. He made significant contributions to the study of blood groups and their distribution among different populations, which had profound implications for forensic science, transfusion medicine, and population genetics.

Early Life and Education

Arthur Mourant was born on the island of Jersey, one of the Channel Islands, in 1904. He pursued his early education in Jersey before moving to England for higher studies. Mourant attended Exeter College, Oxford, where he initially studied geology. He later shifted his focus to medicine and obtained a degree in haematology.

Career

Mourant's career was marked by his interdisciplinary approach, combining elements of haematology and anthropology. He worked at the Lister Institute of Preventive Medicine in London, where he began his groundbreaking research on blood groups. His work was instrumental in the development of the ABO blood group system and the Rh factor, which are critical in blood transfusion and organ transplantation.

Blood Group Research

Arthur Mourant is best known for his comprehensive studies on the distribution of blood groups across different human populations. His book, The Distribution of the Human Blood Groups, published in 1954, is considered a seminal work in the field. Mourant's research provided insights into the genetic and evolutionary aspects of blood groups, helping to trace human migration patterns and understand the genetic diversity of populations.

Contributions to Anthropology

In addition to his work in haematology, Mourant made significant contributions to anthropology. He applied his knowledge of blood groups to study the genetic relationships between different ethnic groups. His research helped to clarify the ancestry and migration patterns of various populations, contributing to the field of population genetics.

Awards and Recognition

Arthur Mourant received numerous accolades for his contributions to science. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in recognition of his work. His research has had a lasting impact on both medical and anthropological sciences.

Legacy

Mourant's work laid the foundation for modern transfusion medicine and forensic science. His interdisciplinary approach continues to influence researchers in both haematology and anthropology. The Mourant Centre for Haematology was named in his honor, reflecting his lasting impact on the field.

Also see

• Blood group system
• Population genetics
• Forensic science
• Transfusion medicine
• Anthropology