The Story of Rosalind Franklin
Rosalind Franklin, an English chemist in the early 20th century, has notably influenced me and catalyzed my journey into STEM. Having read countless articles, books, and papers about Dr. Franklin, I am inspired by her grueling journey as a trailblazer in the field of molecular biochemistry. Dr. Franklin, a pioneer in science, followed her never-ending quest for knowledge to make the crucial discovery of the DNA structure and many others as she battled various obstacles and established the path for women in science.
After earning her Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Cambridge University, Dr. Franklin discovered the helical structure of DNA. In 1952, Dr. Franklin produced Photo 51, “the most famous x-ray image of DNA. Just getting the image took 100 hours and the calculations necessary to analyze took a year.” Dr. Franklin’s work with DNA revolutionized molecular science and laid the platform for many other scientists.
I am in awe of her determination and boldness as Dr. Franklin made many other important discoveries in molecular science by being the first to identify and measure microstructures to classify coal for better gas masks and her research on the structural changes caused by the formation of graphite in heated carbons, which was a valuable discovery for the cooking industry.
Dr. Rosalind Franklin’s courageous perseverance through every obstacle and dedication towards her work has specifically influenced me. She experienced sexism in science firsthand as the academic culture was not very friendly towards women at the time. When she graduated from Cambridge, women were not seen as members of the university entitled to a degree. Dr. Rosalind Franklin struggled to make a place for herself in the scientific world as the politics related to professional rivalries and alliances were in play at that time too. Personally, when Dr. Franklin was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, she was described as “crawling up the stairs to her lab, or standing for hours, hiding her pain, patiently explaining her discoveries at exhibitions.” Dr. Franklin’s unparalleled devotion to her work is inspirational. Although Franklin was put against all odds, her work emerged to be one of the most significant discoveries in science, leaving behind an everlasting legacy.
Not only did Dr. Franklin discover significant scientific concepts, but she also created a niche for women in science. I especially admire how Dr. Franklin created her own space and made the scientific community acknowledge her thoughts. While working in all-male environments, Dr. Franklin persisted and paved the way for future female scientists.
Dr. Franklin was a distinguishable hero who had a passion for science and revolutionized the field of biochemistry. I commend the fact that she cared less about accolades and more about science. Dr. Franklin didn’t allow anyone or anything to stop her from persevering and treading ahead. Despite being ill, she did not let her work get impacted and continued to execute with complete devotion. Rosalind Franklin made a lasting beneficial impact not only on me but on the entire humankind. In the absence of her many discoveries, the field of genetics would not have made as much progress in eradicating health issues and uplifting humanity as it has done today.
