[Bonus] Workplace Safety and Foundational Biochemistry: The Lives of Alice Hamilton and Marie Maynard Daly

In this special bonus episode, Margot and Shane spotlight two pioneering chemists whose work is recognized as ACS National Historic Chemical Landmarks. Margot shares the story of Alice Hamilton, a physician, researcher, and social reformer whose groundbreaking investigations into industrial toxins helped transform workplace safety and laid the foundation for modern occupational health protections. Shane highlights Marie Maynard Daly, the first Black woman in the United States to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry, and whose research advanced our foundational understanding of RNA, amylase, cholesterol, hypertension, and more. Together, their stories showcase how a passion for science, a safe and sustainable environment, and a more inclusive scientific landscape can lead to great — sometimes life-saving — discoveries.

Related episodes you may enjoy: 

• The Modern Chemist: The Origin Story of Chemistry, Episode 3
• 150 Years of ACS: The Origin Story of Chemistry, Episode 4

Transcripts and episode sources at acs.org/chainreaction