Biologist Albert Claude received the Nobel Prize in 1974 for his discoveries concerning the fine structure of the cell. His early work described the nature of mitochondria as the powerhouse of the cell, paving the way for much groundbreaking research by others. In addition, he demonstrated that the interior of cells were not merely an arbitrary mass of substances, but rather a highly organized space delineated by the net-like endoplasmic reticulum , a formation that he was the first to recognize.

Born in Longlier, Belgium (now Luxembourg), on August 24, 1898, Albert Claude chose to become a U.S. citizen at age 43. Though he maintained dual citizenship, his decision was the logical outcome of a growing research career in the United States, a place of opportunity for an individual who began life with what seemed like limited prospects. Claude's father, Florentin Joseph Claude, was a baker and unable to provide the kind...