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Ada Yonath
38quotes
Ada Yonath
Full Name and Common Aliases
Ada Eitan Yonath is a renowned Israeli crystallographer and Nobel laureate.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on June 22, 1939, in Jerusalem, Mandatory Palestine (now Israel). Still active in her research and public life as of my knowledge cutoff.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Israeli citizen, Crystallographer, Professor Emerita at the Weizmann Institute of Science.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a family that valued education, Ada Yonath's interest in science was encouraged from an early age. Her parents, who were both born in Jerusalem, instilled in her a strong work ethic and emphasis on pursuing knowledge. Yonath's early experiences as a young woman also played a significant role in shaping her determination to succeed in a field dominated by men.
Major Accomplishments
Yonath made groundbreaking contributions to the field of structural biology by determining the first macromolecular structure solved by X-ray crystallography, Ribosomal RNA. Her pioneering work enabled a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind protein synthesis and opened new avenues for research in fields such as molecular medicine.
Notable Works or Actions
Throughout her career, Yonath has been recognized for her dedication to science education and outreach. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to science and has served on various committees promoting women's participation in STEM fields. Her commitment to empowering future generations of scientists remains an essential aspect of her legacy.
Impact and Legacy
Ada Yonath's work has far-reaching implications for our understanding of the molecular processes that govern life. Her findings have sparked innovative approaches to treating diseases, improved crop yields, and advanced biotechnology. As a pioneering female scientist in a traditionally male-dominated field, she continues to inspire women around the world to pursue careers in science.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Yonath's remarkable achievements have garnered international attention, earning her numerous accolades including the Nobel Prize in Chemistry (2009). Her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting education has solidified her position as a respected figure in the global scientific community. As a role model for aspiring scientists, Ada Yonath remains a powerful example of what can be achieved through determination and perseverance.
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Quotes by Ada Yonath
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There are over 7,000 different types of proteins in typical eukaryotic cells; the total number depends on the cell class and function.
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Waiting for me in Stockholm will be a personal assistant - Katrina from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs - as well the secretary of the Swedish Academy. They'll help us with our things and take us to our hotel. From the moment I arrive, I'll always be together with the other two laureates.
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The world was not supportive. They look at me as a joke for 13 to 14 years until I could prove feasibility; then I had competitors. Those that laughed at me became my competitors.
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Once, when I tried to calculate the height of the balcony, I broke my arm. Another time, I wanted to see if water moves faster than kerosene. When my father came out to smoke, a fire broke out.
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My parents were Zionists born in Poland. My father was a rabbi who didn't know much about science and ran a grocery store in the neighborhood with my mother's help.
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My memories from my childhood are centered on my father's medical conditions alongside my constant desire to understand the principles of the nature around me.
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I was described as a dreamer, a fantasist, even as the village idiot. I didn't care. What I cared about was convincing people to allow me to go on with my work.
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I wanted to reveal how genetic code is translated into protein. I knew a great application could be for antibiotics, since half of the useful ones target the ribosomes, but I didn't believe I could contribute to it. It was like the next Mount Everest to conquer. It was my dream to contribute something to humanity.
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I used ribosomes from very, very robust bacteria under very, very active conditions and found a way - I actually took advantage of research done before me at the Weizmann, the same institute I am now - how to preserve their activity and their integrity while they crystallized.
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I don't walk into the lab in the morning thinking, 'I am a woman, and I will carry out an experiment that will conquer the world.' I am a scientist, not male or female. A scientist.
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