Oliver Smithies
Biochemistry and Genetics
6/23/1925 – 1/10/2017
Key Achievement
Oliver Smithies was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1/3 share with Mario R. Capecchi and Sir Martin J. Evans, “for their discoveries of principles for introducing specific gene modifications in mice by the use of embryonic stem cells.” These discoveries are the basis of methods used worldwide to investigate the role of particular genes in a wide range of human diseases including cancer, cystic fibrosis and diabetes.Smithies also invented an improved method of gel electrophoresis. In electrophoresis an electric field is used to separate and analyze macromolecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins, and their fragments, based on their size and charge. The method developed by Smithies is the basis for the methods that are now essential tools used in various fields of biology and biochemistry.
Connection to Wisconsin
Smithies came to UW-Madison in 1951 as a post-doctorial fellow after receiving his PhD in biochemistry from the University of Oxford. He stayed only a short time due to a visa problem, but returned in 1960. He was a professor of genetics at UW–Madison from 1960 to 1988. While he was a UW professor, Smithies performed much of the work for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize. He donated part of his Nobel award to UW-Madison to establish a symposium that brings some of the world’s top biologists to speak to UW students. He made similar contributions to three other universities where he studied and worked.
For additional information, visit:
UW-Madison Obituary
For additional information, visit:
UW-Madison Obituary