About
Manfred Eigen was a German biophysical chemist who made significant contributions to the field of chemical kinetics. He is best known for winning the 1967 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his groundbreaking work on measuring fast chemical reactions. Eigen's research revolutionized the understanding of chemical processes at the molecular level.
Career Timeline
Developed Relaxation Methods
Eigen's development of relaxation methods revolutionized the study of fast chemical reactions, allowing scientists to observe previously unobservable processes.
Director at Max Planck Institute
Becoming a director at the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry greatly elevated his position in the scientific community.
Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Winning the Nobel Prize for his work on fast chemical reactions brought him international recognition and significantly increased his influence.
Published The Selforganization of Matter
This significant publication explored the origins of life and the mechanisms of genetic information transfer, bridging chemistry and biology.
Retired from Max Planck
After his retirement, Eigen continued to contribute to science through lectures and advisory roles.
Passed away at 91
Manfred Eigen passed away leaving a lasting legacy on the fields of physical chemistry and molecular biology.
Legacy as Pioneer
While his contributions remain foundational, Eigen's specific work is less widely known outside of scientific circles.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026