Famous Black Scientists
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Black scientists such as George Washington Carver, Mae C. Jemison and Neil deGrasse Tyson are widely known, while others — such as engineer Otis Boykin — are less famous, but equally made an impact. Discover the struggles and triumphs of these and other African American innovators.
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Percy Julian
African American chemist Percy Julian was a pioneer in the chemical synthesis of medicinal drugs such as cortisone, steroids and birth control pills.
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Neil deGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysicist who hosted 'NOVA ScienceNow' and makes media appearances to encourage science and space exploration.
Mae C. Jemison
Mae C. Jemison is the first African American female astronaut. In 1992, she flew into space aboard the Endeavour, becoming the first African American woman in space.
George Washington Carver
George Washington Carver was an African American scientist and educator. Carver is famous for many inventions including a number of uses for the peanut.
Katherine Johnson
One of NASA's human 'computers,' Katherine Johnson performed the complex calculations that enabled humans to successfully achieve space flight. Her story is depicted in the 2016 movie 'Hidden Figures.'
Edward Alexander Bouchet
In 1876, Edward Alexander Bouchet became the first African American to earn a doctorate degree in the United States.