Ronald Charles David Breslow. 14 March 1931—25 October 2017

Abstract

Ronald Breslow was one of the leading organic chemists of his generation. He had received the perfect start in gaining a Harvard doctorate at the age of 24 supervised by the legendary Bob Woodward, followed by a year of postdoctoral work in Cambridge with the equally legendary, but scientifically distinct, Alexander Todd. An academic career of 62 years at Columbia University followed, starting in 1955, and scientific success arose quickly. He was a physical organic chemist, using this discipline as a vehicle for tackling all manner of scientific problems and venturing as needed into biology, physics or medicine. He prepared the simplest aromatic species, solved the mechanism of action of Vitamin B1, built bridges between organic chemistry and enzymology, and developed an anti-cancer drug with a distinct enzyme target. Rewards, honours and prestigious lecture invitations arrived throughout his career, in recognition of the scope and originality of his achievements. He met Esther at Harvard, and they married on completion of his PhD. After returning to the USA, she pursued a successful career in biochemistry at Weill Cornell Medical School in New York. They raised two daughters, Stephanie and Karen, who both became successful attorneys. He had strong family values and was very proud of all their achievements. Towards his co-workers, he was open, eager to engage in discussion and committed to supporting them, both during time at Columbia and thereafter. His warmth encouraged positive responses to his style of supervision, and lively discussions. He was an accomplished classical and jazz pianist, the family cook, and they scuba-dived on annual vacations.