Ira Remsen

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Ira Remsen
Ira Remsen
BornFebruary 10, 1846
DiedMarch 4, 1927(1927-03-04) (aged 81)
NationalityAmerican
Alma materColumbia University, University of Göttingen
Known forCo-discovery of saccharin
Scientific career
FieldsChemistry
InstitutionsJohns Hopkins University
Doctoral advisorRudolph Fittig



Ira Remsen (February 10, 1846March 4, 1927) was an American chemist best known for his co-discovery of saccharin. He was a prominent figure in the field of chemistry and played a significant role in the establishment of Johns Hopkins University as a leading institution for scientific research and education.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Ira Remsen was born in New York City, New York, on February 10, 1846. He attended Columbia University, where he earned his M.D. in 1867. However, his interest in chemistry led him to pursue further studies in the field. He traveled to Germany and studied at the University of Göttingen, where he received his Ph.D. in 1870 under the mentorship of Rudolph Fittig.

Academic Career[edit | edit source]

After completing his studies in Germany, Remsen returned to the United States and began his academic career. In 1876, he was appointed as a professor of chemistry at the newly established Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. Remsen played a crucial role in developing the university's chemistry department and establishing it as a center for advanced scientific research.

Discovery of Saccharin[edit | edit source]

In 1879, while conducting research with his student Constantin Fahlberg, Remsen co-discovered saccharin, an artificial sweetener. The discovery was made accidentally when Fahlberg noticed a sweet taste on his hands after a day in the laboratory. This led to further investigation and the identification of saccharin as a sweetening agent. The discovery of saccharin had a significant impact on the food industry and the development of artificial sweeteners.

Contributions to Chemistry[edit | edit source]

Remsen made numerous contributions to the field of chemistry through his research and publications. He authored several influential textbooks, including "Theoretical Chemistry" and "Introduction to the Study of Chemistry," which were widely used in chemistry education. His work helped to advance the understanding of chemical reactions and organic chemistry.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Ira Remsen's contributions to chemistry and his role in the establishment of Johns Hopkins University as a leading research institution have left a lasting legacy. The Remsen Hall at Johns Hopkins University is named in his honor, and his work continues to be recognized and celebrated in the field of chemistry.

Personal Life[edit | edit source]

Remsen married Blanche Snowden in 1875, and they had two children. He passed away on March 4, 1927, in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD