Arthur Mourant

Arthur Mourant

Arthur Mourant in 1954

Arthur Ernest Mourant (1904–1994) was a renowned British scientist known for his pioneering work in the field of hematology and genetics. He made significant contributions to the study of blood groups and was instrumental in the development of blood transfusion services.

Early Life and Education

Arthur Mourant was born on April 11, 1904, in Jersey, one of the Channel Islands. He attended Victoria College, Jersey, and later went on to study at Exeter College, Oxford, where he earned a degree in geology. Mourant's interest in the natural sciences led him to pursue further studies in chemistry and medicine.

Career

Geology

Mourant initially worked as a geologist, conducting research in the field of petrology. His early work included studies on the igneous rocks of Jersey and the Channel Islands.

Hematology and Blood Group Research

In the 1940s, Mourant shifted his focus to hematology, where he became a leading figure in the study of blood groups. He joined the Medical Research Council's Blood Group Research Unit in London, where he worked alongside other prominent scientists.

Mourant's research was crucial in understanding the distribution of blood groups across different populations. He authored the influential book "The Distribution of the Human Blood Groups," which became a standard reference in the field.

Contributions to Blood Transfusion

Mourant's work laid the foundation for modern blood transfusion practices. He was involved in the establishment of blood transfusion services in the United Kingdom, ensuring safe and effective blood donation and transfusion processes.

Legacy

Arthur Mourant's contributions to genetics and hematology have had a lasting impact on medical science. His research on blood groups has been instrumental in the fields of forensic science, anthropology, and genetic counseling.

Related Pages

• Blood group system
• Hematology
• Genetics
• Blood transfusion