Severo Ochoa was born on September 25, 1905, in Spain. His father, also named Severo, was a lawyer and businessman. Ochoa showed an early interest in science and medicine, which led him to attend the University of Madrid Medical School.
After completing his medical studies, Ochoa began his career as a doctor, but his passion for research soon led him to pursue a career in biochemistry. He moved to Germany to work with the renowned biochemist Otto Meyerhof, where he developed an interest in the synthesis of RNA.
Ochoa's groundbreaking work on RNA synthesis earned him the 1959 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, which he shared with American biochemist Arthur Kornberg. His research laid the foundation for our understanding of how genetic information is stored and transmitted in living organisms.
Despite his busy career, Ochoa made time for his family. He was a devoted husband and father, and his family was a source of love and support throughout his life.
Severo Ochoa's contributions to science continue to impact the field of biochemistry today. The asteroid 117435 Severochoa was named in his honor, a testament to his lasting influence on the scientific community.