Ferdinand Wurzer

Born in Brühl on June 2, 1765, Ferdinand Wurzer studied philosophy and then medicine in Bonn, earning his medical doctorate in 1788. He worked as a physician for several years, but chemistry became a lasting focus of his life and gradually drew him into university teaching.

After teaching in Bonn, he became professor of chemistry at the newly established central school there in 1797. In 1805 he moved to the University of Marburg as professor of chemistry and medicine, and he is remembered as a founder of chemistry as a formal field at the university. He also took on major academic responsibilities, serving several times as prorector.

Wurzer died in Marburg on July 30, 1844. During his lifetime he was recognized by learned societies and civic institutions, and later accounts remember him not only as a chemist and physician, but also as an important early organizer of scientific study in Marburg.