Elizabeth Lee Hazen | |
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Born | August 24, 1885 |
Died | June 24, 1975 | (aged 89)
Nationality | American |
Citizenship | United States |
Alma mater | Mississippi University for Women Columbia University |
Known for | Developing nystatin, the first anti-fungal drug |
Awards | The Squibb Award in Chemotherapy The Rhoda Benham Award of Medical Mycological Society of the Americas The Chemical Pioneer Award of the American Institute of Chemists National Inventors Hall of Fame |
Scientific career | |
Fields | Microbiology |
Institutions | New York State Department of Public Health, Division of Laboratories and Research |
Elizabeth Lee Hazen (August 24, 1885 in Mississippi – June 24, 1975) is most known for her contribution to the development of nystatin. Her education focused on science and research where she developed a passion for microbiology. Her peers and teachers knew her as a quick learner and a bright student. In 1948, she teamed up with Rachel Fuller Brown to develop nystatin, the first non-toxic drug treatment for fungal infections in humans. Her research had multiple applications ranging from saving infected trees to restoring paintings and artwork damaged due to mold.