Morgan, Thomas Hunt

Definition

Thomas Hunt Morgan was an American biologist and geneticist who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1933 for his discoveries concerning the role chromosomes play in heredity. His work provided empirical evidence for the chromosomal theory of inheritance through his studies on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster.

Etymology

Named after Thomas Hunt Morgan (1866–1945), who made groundbreaking contributions to the field of genetics.

Example

Thomas Hunt Morgan's experiments with Drosophila melanogaster helped to establish the importance of chromosomes in heredity.

Related Terms

• Drosophila melanogaster
• Genetics
• Chromosomal theory of inheritance

Usage Notes

Morgan's contributions are fundamental in the fields of genetics and entomology. He is often referred to in literature concerning genetic research and the use of model organisms in scientific studies.