Rolf Knippers, born on October 17, 1936 in Tübingen, Germany, was a renowned German molecular biologist known for his significant contributions in the field of chromatin research and DNA replication.
After studying biology and chemistry at the University of Tübingen, Knippers received his doctorate in 1963 and continued his research at various prestigious institutions, including the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry in Göttingen.
Knippers' work focused on the structure and function of chromatin, the complex of DNA and proteins that organizes the genome in the cell nuclei of eukaryotes. He contributed significantly to the understanding of the organization and regulation of DNA and, in particular, investigated the mechanisms of DNA replication.
His groundbreaking work led to important insights into the regulation of cell division and the development of cancer. Knippers was Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Stuttgart, where he headed the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
He published numerous scientific articles and was a respected mentor for many young scientists. His life was characterized by a lifelong dedication to research into the molecular basis of life and his significant contribution to molecular biology. Knippers passed away in May 2021.
Obituary on the death of Rolf Knippersc see PDF
