1900-1995

English biochemist who documented the history of science. Educated at Cambridge University, Needham specialized in embryology. He conducted research at the Cambridge Dunn Institute of Biochemistry. Needham wrote several books, including A History of Embryology (1934). Traveling through China on a scientific mission, Needham became fascinated with Chinese medicine and technology. He compiled the comprehensive, seven-volume Science and Civilisation in China (1954). Needham also served as visiting professor at several universities and as director of Cambridge's Needham Research Institute.