Emil-Fischer-Haus Department of Chemistry

What secrets lie within these walls? Before us stands the Emil-Fischer-Haus Department of Chemistry, a place echoing with the brilliance of a scientific giant. Emil Fischer, a name synonymous with groundbreaking discoveries in chemistry, left an indelible mark on this institution and the world of science. The Emil-Fischer-Haus, located on the Adlershof Campus of Humboldt-Universität, stands as a testament to his legacy. Fischer’s journey began in 1892 when he joined Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität. In 1900, the first Institute of Chemistry, a state-of-the-art facility at the time, opened its doors in Hessische Strasse. Fischer presided over this institute for nearly three decades. His impact extended beyond the walls of the institute. In 1911, he laid the foundation for the Kaiser Wilhelm Society, which later evolved into the renowned Max Planck Society. Fischer’s genius lay in biochemistry. He was a prominent figure in natural product chemistry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His meticulous studies focused on carbohydrates, amino acids, tannins, and uric acid derivatives. He delved into their structure, synthesis, and reactivity, unraveling their complex nature. He also conceptualized the lock-and-key theory of enzyme action. His synthetic prowess led to the creation of glucose, caffeine, and the sleep-inducing barbiturates. The pinnacle of his career arrived in 1902. Emil Fischer became the first German chemist to receive the Nobel Prize, a recognition of his revolutionary work on sugar and purine synthesis. This achievement cemented his place among the scientific elite. The Emil-Fischer-Haus serves as a constant reminder of his contributions. Within its walls, future generations of chemists continue to explore the molecular world, inspired by the legacy of Emil Fischer.