Kary Mullis

Kary Banks Mullis (December 28, 1944 – August 7, 2019) was an American biochemist whose invention of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) transformed modern molecular biology and forensic science. Born in North Carolina, Mullis earned his Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of California, Berkeley, before joining Cetus Corporation in 1983, where he developed PCR. This revolutionary technique allows scientists to amplify and analyze specific DNA sequences exponentially, making it essential for genetic testing, disease diagnosis, criminal investigations, and countless other applications. Mullis received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1993 for this groundbreaking discovery, sharing recognition with Michael Smith. Beyond his scientific achievements, Mullis was known for his colorful personality, unconventional thinking, and willingness to challenge scientific orthodoxy. His work has had an incalculable impact on medicine, biology, and forensic science, making him one of the most influential scientists of the late 20th century.