Born: 1921
Died: 2003
Marie Maynard Daly (April 16, 1921 – October 28, 2003) was an American biochemist who made significant contributions to the field of chemistry and medicine. She was a groundbreaking figure, known for being the first African-American woman in the United States to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry and the first African-American to receive a Ph.D. from Columbia University.
Daly’s journey towards success began in her early years. She attended Hunter College High School, where she was exposed to a rigorous scientific curriculum. With the encouragement of her teachers, she developed a strong interest in chemistry. Daly then went on to enroll at Queens College, where she graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 1942. Her exceptional academic performance earned her the title of Queens College Scholar.
During World War II, labor shortages and the need for scientists allowed Daly to pursue further education. She secured fellowships to study at New York University and later Columbia University, where she earned her master’s and Ph.D. degrees in chemistry, respectively. Daly’s doctoral thesis, titled A Study of the Products Formed By the Action of Pancreatic Amylase on Corn Starch, was supervised by Mary Letitia Caldwell.
After completing her education, Daly embarked on an impactful career in academia and research. She began her journey as a physical science instructor at Howard University and conducted research under the guidance of Herman Branson. It was during this time that Daly was awarded an American Cancer Society grant, which allowed her to work with Alfred E. Mirsky’s group at the Rockefeller Institute. Her research at the institute focused on the cell nucleus and its constituents, specifically the construction of proteins in the body.
Daly’s work at the Rockefeller Institute paved the way for further groundbreaking research. In 1955, she joined the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University, where she collaborated with Quentin B. Deming to study arterial metabolism. In 1960, Daly and Deming moved to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Yeshiva University, where she continued her research as an assistant professor of biochemistry and medicine.
Throughout her career, Daly made significant contributions in four distinct areas of research. She conducted extensive studies on the chemistry of histones, protein synthesis, the relationship between cholesterol and hypertension, and creatine’s uptake by muscle cells. Daly’s research not only deepened our understanding of biochemistry but also laid the foundation for advancements in medicine and human health.
In addition to her research, Daly was a strong advocate for increasing minority representation in higher education. She dedicated her efforts to enhancing minority enrollment in professional and graduate programs. Daly’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity played a vital role in inspiring future generations of underrepresented individuals to pursue careers in science and academia.
Daly’s contributions earned her numerous accolades and recognition. Though not an exhaustive list, some of her notable achievements include being appointed as an investigator for the American Heart Association from 1958 to 1963. Her groundbreaking work and dedication to scientific discovery continue to influence and inspire scientists to this day.
Marie Maynard Daly’s contributions to the field of biochemistry and her impact on society as a pioneering African-American scientist make her an important figure in both scientific and women’s history. Her groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire future generations to pursue their passions and push the boundaries of scientific knowledge. Daly’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and representation in STEM fields.