René Dubos
(1901-1982)

French-born American Microbiologist, Environmentalist, Humanist

birthdate: February 20
birthplace: Saint-Brice-Sous-Foret, France

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René Dubos was a French-born American microbiologist who believed that although science and technology have done much to harm the Earth, our ecological problems can also be solved through science and technology. René Dubos' pioneering research in isolating antibacterial substances from microorganisms that live in soil resulted in the discovery of many lifesaving antibiotics. Later in his career he explored human impact on the environment. He believed that humanity is evolving a social conscience and can choose to change directions to promote environmental balance and sustainability. During the last two years of his life he served as chairman of the Board of the René Dubos Center for Human Environment, which was created in his honor. The Center's ongoing mission is to help formulate policies to solve our environmental problems and to promote environmental values.