Career Milestones

Born the grandson of Alabama slaves during segregation in 1899 and facing a lifetime of personal and professional challenges, Percy Lavon Julian nevertheless went on to become one of the 20th century's most influential scientists. His work with steroids and alkaloids helped bring about a host of affordable and effective treatments for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and glaucoma, benefiting millions worldwide. Here, examine a sampling of this forgotten chemist's most important scientific and medical breakthroughs.—Rima Chaddha

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