Portrait of Ira Remsen, M.D., Ph.D.
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Dr. Ira Remsen, M.D, Ph.D. (1846-1927), was a prominent figure in the field of chemistry. Beginning his career as a physician graduated from the New York Homeopathic Medical College, he contributed to the study of chemistry through research, teaching, and heading up many organizations.
Birth: February 10, 1846, New York, New York
Death: March 4, 1927
Education:
At New York Medical College:
Ira Remsen, M.D., Ph.D. (1846-1927) is best known for his contributions to the field of chemistry. However, he began his professional career initially as a physician, and he seemed to retain a respect and affinity for biomedical science as his work in chemistry continued.
Born in New York City in 1846, it was not Dr. Remsen’s plan to go to medical school. It was, in fact, his father who pushed him to go. One account described it as having been decided for him. In line with this, his father enrolled him to attend the New York Homeopathic Medical College. During his studies, he discovered an interest in chemistry and what might now be considered chemical pharmacology.
Shortly after graduating from the New York Homeopathic Medical College, he worked as an Assistant Chemist and later as a Professor of Chemistry and Toxicology for the college. His next position was as a clinician, and during this time, he discovered a strong dislike for clinical medicine. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in Chemistry instead.
This began an illustrious career in chemistry as a researcher, professor, and leading figure. He became the Chair of Chemistry at Johns Hopkins University and later worked as the university’s president from 1901 to 1913. He held many other notable positions including professor at multiple institutions, President of the American Chemical Society, President of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and President of the National Academy of Sciences. Dr. Remsen also earned many awards for his work including the Gold Medal of the Society of Chemical industry in 1908, Willard Gibbs Medal in 1914, and the Priestley Medal in 1923.
While his work was as a chemist, he seemed to hold a fondness for medical practice. His students noted that he would often go out of his way to refer to chemicals that had made significant impacts in medical treatment. Dr. Remsen was also a significant contributor to the development of saccharin. He had assigned the project to test and develop the compound to a graduate student who quickly patented the substance, and so a bitter dispute regarding the credit for the discovery ensued.
In his personal life, Dr. Remsen was known to be a gracious host and frequently held social gatherings with his wife and children. After leaving his position with Johns Hopkins University, his family settled in a home somewhat close to the New York Medical college in Rockland County, NY. He and his wife continued to move between this home and residences in California, Maine, and Massachusetts until his death from cerebral hemorrhage in 1927.
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