A discovery 65 years ago at ORNL paved the way for mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines
Elliot Volkin and his research partner Lazarus Astrachan first observed and described what later came to be known as Messenger RNA. Author: Robin Wilhoit Updated: 6:20 PM EDT May 25, 2021
To the world Elliot Volkin was a distinguished scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. To Karen Brunner he was simply dad.
“That was his job. And I think growing up in Oak Ridge, being a scientist, was just your dad’s job,” said Brunner.
But his wasn’t your average, everyday job. In 1956, Volkin made a discovery at ORNL that was described by fellow scientists as one of the most important events in the history of molecular biology. Volkin and his research partner Lazarus Astrachan first observed and described what later came to be known as messenger RNA, mRNA.
Carolyn Krause/Special to The Oak Ridger
“A Tribute to Alvin Weinberg,” including information on the new online database of his scientific publications and other documents, will be presented virtually to the public from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 20 (Weinberg’s birth anniversary).
The presentation, via Zoom, is sponsored by the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge and Friends of Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
“The purpose of this public online event is to honor Alvin Weinberg’s legacy and to celebrate the preservation and digitization of his papers,” said Rhonda Bogard, who led the digitization of the papers, most of which were initially donated to the Children’s Museum in 1986.
Oak Ridge Today
Posted at “A Tribute to Alvin Weinberg,” including information on the new online database of his scientific publications and other documents, will be presented virtually to the public from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, April 20 (Weinberg’s birth anniversary). The presentation, via Zoom, is sponsored by the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge and Friends of Oak Ridge National Laboratory. “The purpose of this public online event is to honor Alvin Weinberg’s legacy and to celebrate the preservation and digitization of his papers,” said Rhonda Bogard, who led the digitization of the papers, most of which were initially donated to the Children’s Museum in 1986.
Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge to host Celebration of the Young Child
Special to The Oak Ridger
The Children’s Museum is still open on a part-time basis because of the pandemic. The Museum’s schedule is Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m, and Sunday from 1 until 4 p.m.
For everyone’s safety, staff and volunteers in public areas of the Museum wear masks, and the Museum is vigilant about cleaning and visitor safety protocols. Museum visitors are expected to practice social distancing, and visitors ages five and older are required to wear a mask. Masks are optional for children ages three through four. Masks are not required for children younger than three. Visitors’ temperatures are checked upon arrival and a series of health questions are asked.
ORFace and Pat Postma
D. Ray Smith/Historically Speaking
This “Historically Speaking” article will be focused on the future as well as reminding us of a past I feel not too many realize. Writing “Historically Speaking” has become a part of my life that is most rewarding. I am constantly being encouraged by readers who offer suggestions for topics and many who are willing to contribute to the articles. Benita Albert and Carolyn Krause are two who routinely contribute. Others, such as Mike Stallo also contribute.
This one is a bit unusual, but I hope you will enjoy learning some history and will join me as we look to the future. Stay with me now …