Paul R. Cannon
The University of Chicago
August 25, 1892 - September 7, 1986
|
Scientific Discipline: Microbial Biology Membership Type:
Emeritus
(elected 1946)
|
Pathologist Paul R. Cannon concentrated his research on the cellular characteristics of immunology. He pioneered the study of nutrition and how it affects immune response. He was able to determine the minimum amount of proteins one should consume on a daily basis to maintain an active and healthy immune response. His discovery of the relationship between protein deficiency and immune function aided many Third World countries in combating famine and disease.
Cannon received his AB degree from James Millikin University in 1915 and his PhD in bacteriology from the University of Chicago in 1921. He then attended Rush Medical College and earned his MD in 1926. He was the chair of the Pathology Department at Rush from 1940 to 1957. He served as editor of the Archives of Pathology. Cannon was also the president of the American Association of Pathologists and Bacteriologists and the American Society for Experimental Pathology. In 1969 he had the honor of being awarded the Gold-Headed Cane, the most prestigious award a pathologist can receive.
