 |
Carl WoeseAmerican microbiologist
Date of Birth: 15.07.1928
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Karl Woese: Pioneer of Molecular Phylogenetics
- Career at University of Illinois
- Discovery of the Third Domain of Life
- Molecular Phylogenetics and the Universal Genetic Code
- Legacy and Impact
Karl Woese: Pioneer of Molecular Phylogenetics
Early Life and EducationKarl Woese was born on July 15, 1928, in Syracuse, New York. Despite earning a bachelor's degree in physics, his interest in biology ignited during his graduate studies at Yale University.
Career at University of Illinois
After completing his doctorate in biophysics in 1959, Woese joined the faculty of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. There, he established the Center for the Study of Early Events in Photosynthesis and the Institute for Genomic Biology.
Discovery of the Third Domain of Life
Woese's groundbreaking research on ribosomal RNA (rRNA) led to the discovery of the third domain of life: archaea. By comparing the nucleotide sequences of 16S rRNA, he found that the three domains of bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes were distinct evolutionary lineages.
Molecular Phylogenetics and the Universal Genetic Code
Woese's phylogenetic analysis of rRNA revealed that it evolves at a relatively constant rate, providing a molecular clock for evolutionary studies. This discovery challenged the traditional two-domain classification of life and revolutionized understanding of the history of life on Earth.
Legacy and Impact
Karl Woese's work laid the foundation for modern molecular phylogenetics and transformed the field of evolutionary biology. His discovery of archaea expanded the known diversity of life and provided insights into the origins of the three domains. Woese passed away on December 30, 2012, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as a pioneering scientist.
