The Evolution of Molecular Biology (eBook)

The Evolution of Molecular Biology: The Search for the Secrets of Life provides the historical knowledge behind techniques founded in molecular biology, also presenting an appreciation of how, and by whom, these discoveries were made. It deals with the evolution of intellectual concepts in the context of active research in an approachable language that accommodates readers from a variety of backgrounds. Each chapter contains a prologue and epilogue to create continuity and provide a complete framework of molecular biology. This foundational work also functions as a historical and conceptual supplement to many related courses in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, genetics and history of science. In addition, the book demonstrates how the roots of discovery and advances-and an individual's own research-have grown out of the history of the field, presenting a more complete understanding and context for scientific discovery. - Expands on the development of molecular biology from the convergence of two independent disciplines, biochemistry and genetics - Discusses the value of molecular biology in a variety of applications - Includes research ethics and the societal implications of research - Emphasizes the human aspects of research and the consequences of such advances to society

Kensal van Holde is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Biophysics and Biochemistry at Oregon State University. Dr. van Holde has made significant contributions to the field of chromatin structure and dynamics, for which he was awarded the highly prestigious American Cancer Society Research Professorship in 1977. His second major research interest was focused on protein structure and function. The scientific contributions of Dr. van Holde have been recognized by election to the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and numerous awards and fellowships, including Guggenheim, NSF, and EMBO. He has authored or co-authored more than 200 scientific papers, as well as multiple well-received and well-known books. His teaching experience includes undergraduate and graduate chemistry and molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, and also the physiology and molecular biology course at the Marine Biological Laboratory at Woods Hole, MA. In 1999, Dr. van Holde received the Emily M. Gray Biophysical Society award for teaching and education publication in Biophysical Chemistry. In 2012, he received the Monie A. Ferst Award from the Scientific Society Sigma Xi; this Award is granted specifically for excellence in graduate education.