Edward H. Ahrens, Jr.
The Rockefeller University
May 21, 1915 - December 9, 2000
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Scientific Discipline: Medical Physiology and Metabolism Membership Type:
Member
(elected 1973)
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Edward H. Ahrens Jr. was a pioneer in the field of cholesterol research. He is well known for his work concerning the role of saturated and unsaturated fats in lowering or increasing cholesterol levels. His groundbreaking studies came to the conclusion that unsaturated fats lower cholesterol while saturated fats increase cholesterol. Ultimately, his research made it clear for the first time that diet can play a significant role in preventing heart attacks and other cholesterol-related health issues.
Ahrens graduated from Harvard University in 1937 and earned his medical degree from the same institution in 1941. He served with the United States Air Force as a part of the Medical Corps from 1943 to 1946. Ahrens then joined Rockefeller University––originally known as the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research––where he held both research and academic positions until his death. He also founded The Journal of Lipid Research in 1958, and remained actively involved with the journal in formal and informal capacities for several years. Ahrens was well recognized for his vast contributions to the field of medicine. He was granted membership to six distinguished organizations, including the National Academy of Sciences in 1973.
