Chemistry

MAX TISHLER

Professor of Chemistry 1970-1987

 tishler
The Max Tishler Undergraduate Research Stipend is awarded to outstanding students in honor of Dr. Max Tishler.
 
Dr. Tishler joined the faculty of Wesleyan in 1970 upon retirement from Merck & Co. as senior vice president of research and development. At Merck, Dr. Tishler developed commercial production of vitamin B12, as well as vitamins C, B6, D, E, and K1. He also was coauthor of the first synthesis of hydrocortisone and the first isolation of actinomycin D, which is used in the treatment of Wilms tumors. Through his efforts, Merck mass-produced penicillin for use in World War II. Under his leadership, Merck developed vaccines against measles, mumps, and German measles, as well as drugs for heart disease, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, and clinical depression. Dr. Tishler received the National Medal of Science in 1987 for "his profound contributions to the nation's health and for the impact of his research on the practice of chemistry."

He established the annual Peter A. Leermakers Symposium in 1972. Named Emeritus University Professor of the Sciences in 1975, he continued his daily office and laboratory routine until shortly before he died in 1989 from complications of emphysema. After his death, President Chase of Wesleyan said, " Max Tishler has been a mentor to countless younger scientists. He will be deeply missed."