Joshua Lederberg

Joshua Lederberg was a renowned American geneticist who made foundational contributions to microbiology and genetics. He discovered that bacteria can exchange genetic information through a process called conjugation, which challenged previous beliefs and advanced understanding of heredity. Lederberg’s work helped reveal how microorganisms adapt and evolve, impacting medicine and biotechnology. He received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1958 at age 33, making him one of the youngest winners. His research laid the groundwork for modern genetics, molecular biology, and studies on antibiotic resistance, significantly shaping the fields of science and medicine.