Joseph Samachson

Born in Trenton, New Jersey, on October 13, 1906, Joseph Samachson built an unusually varied career as both a scientist and a writer. He earned a doctorate in chemistry from Yale, worked in biochemistry and medical research, and later served at Loyola University in Chicago.

Alongside his scientific work, he wrote fiction under his own name and under the pen name William Morrison. He published science fiction in the pulp magazines, wrote books for younger readers such as Mel Oliver and Space Rover on Mars, and became known in comics as the co-creator of Martian Manhunter and Tomahawk.

That mix of scientific training and storytelling gave his work a grounded, curious feel that still stands out. Samachson died in Chicago on June 2, 1980, leaving behind a body of work that connects mid-century science fiction, children's adventure, and classic comics.