This site contains profiles and accomplishments of pioneering African-American scientists.
Prior to the U.S. civil rights era in the 1960s, most African-Americans
were denied access
to advanced education and professional career opportunities. African-Americans wishing to pursue careers
in science were especially handicapped due to unavailability of teaching
and research positions at major universities.
The majority of blacks wishing to pursue science careers received their education
from historically black
colleges and universities (HBCUs) such as Howard University (Washington, D.C.), Fisk University (Tennessee) and
Hampton University (Virginia). Many of profiled scientists here taught at these schools before, after and while
pursuing careers in industry.
The African-American scientists profiled on this site were born in the 19th and early 20th centuries when education opportunities
available to blacks were at their worst. With the help of HBCUs and professional black organizations,
these African-American Pioneers in Science made important contributions to
science despite the obstacles and discrimination they encountered.
To read the profile of a scientist, click on the scientist's photo in the Alphabetical Listing below or click on
the scientist's name under Chronological Listing on the left.
Benjamin BannekerEdward Alexander BouchetSt. Elmo BradyGeorge Washington CarverMamie Phipps ClarkJewel Plummer CobbElbert Frank CoxMarie Maynard DalyCharles Richard DrewEvelyn Boyd GranvilleLloyd Augustus HallElmer Samuel ImesPercy Lavon JulianErnest Everett JustCharles Henry TurnerJ. Ernest Wilkins Jr.Daniel Hale WilliamsJane Cooke WrightRoger Arliner Young
