Paul Ehrlich
1854–1915 · German · Victorian Era / Edwardian Era
Known for: Pioneer of chemotherapy who developed the first effective syphilis treatment and coined 'magic bullet'
Paul Ehrlich tested hundreds of chemical compounds seeking a 'magic bullet' that would kill disease organisms without harming patients. Compound 606 (Salvarsan) was the first effective antimicrobial drug—revolutionizing the treatment of syphilis.
He was a chain cigar smoker who wore stained lab coats and communicated in colorful postcards. He won the Nobel Prize in 1908.
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