Rosalind Franklin

Rosalind Franklin, an emblem of unyielding dedication and scientific prowess, is a name often eclipsed in the annals of 20th-century scientific history. Born in 1920 in London, Franklin's foray into the realm of biophysics and X-ray diffraction would inadvertently become the cornerstone for one of the most groundbreaking discoveries in biology.

Franklin's methodical and meticulous work led her to produce the famous Photograph 51, an X-ray diffraction image of DNA. This photo would inadvertently become the key that unlocked the molecular structure of DNA, playing an instrumental role in the formulation of the DNA double helix model. However, the true gravity of her contributions was only acknowledged posthumously, with much of the initial credit going to James Watson and Francis Crick.

Unravelling some of the intricate tapestry of her work and contributions:

Photograph 51: Franklin's precision with X-ray diffraction techniques allowed her to capture the iconic image of DNA, providing essential clues about its structure.

DNA's Double Helix: While Watson and Crick are often lauded for proposing the double helix structure, it was Franklin's data and Photograph 51 that were pivotal to this revelation.

Virus Structure: Beyond DNA, Franklin made significant strides in understanding the morphology of viruses, laying foundational knowledge about their architecture.

Franklin's life, though cut short at the age of 37, remains a testament to the power of perseverance, precision, and the pursuit of truth. As we reflect on the annals of history, it becomes imperative to recognize and honour such unsung heroes whose quiet toil reshaped our understanding of the very fabric of life.