Venki Ramakrishnan is an Indian-born structural biologist who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2009, along with Thomas A. Steitz and Ada E. Yonath, for studies on the structure and function of the ribosome. His work focused on using X-ray crystallography to determine the atomic structure of the ribosome, a molecular machine essential for protein synthesis in cells.
Born on April 5, 1952, in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, Venki completed his undergraduate studies in physics at Baroda University (now Maharaja Sayajirao University). He later switched to biology, earning a Ph.D. in Physics from Ohio University in the United States. He is also known for authoring the book “Gene Machine,” which provides insights into his journey and the scientific challenges behind studying ribosomes.
Venki Ramakrishnan served as the President of the Royal Society from 2015 to 2020.
“Why We Die” by Venki Ramakrishnan explores the biological, philosophical, and societal aspects of death. The book delves into the scientific mechanisms of aging and death, examining how cellular processes, genetic factors, and environmental influences contribute to the inevitable end of life. It also reflects on the significance of death in evolution, culture, and human understanding.While addressing why death is integral to life itself, the book emphasizes the balance between growth and decay, offering insights into the quest for longevity and the ethical dilemmas of extending life. It provides a thoughtful examination of humanity’s perception of mortality and our efforts to confront and understand it.
