Irène Joliot-Curie
She, along with her husband Frédéric Joliot-Curie, discovered artificial radioactivity.
Most quoted
"We must not forget that when radium was discovered no one knew that it would prove useful in hospitals. The work was one of pure science. And this is a proof that scientific work must not be considered from the point of view of the direct usefulness of it. It must be done for itself, for the beauty of science, and then there is always the chance that a scientific discovery may become like the radium a benefit for humanity."
— from Biography
"We must not forget that when radium was discovered no one knew that it would prove useful in hospitals. The work was one of pure science. And this is a proof that scientific work must not be considered from the point of view of the direct usefulness of it. It must be done for itself, for the beauty of science, and then there is always the chance that a scientific discovery may become like radium, a benefit for humanity."
— from Nobel Lecture, 'Artificial Production of Radioactive Elements', 1935
"Humanity needs practical men, who get the most out of their work, and, without forgetting the general good, safeguard their own interests. But humanity also needs dreamers, for whom the disinterested development of an enterprise is so captivating that it becomes impossible for them to devote their care to their own material profit."
— from Likely derived from Marie Curie
All quotes by Irène Joliot-Curie (405)
The atom's secrets are revealed through patient experimentation.
My father's legacy is in every experiment I conduct.
Humor in the lab keeps the mind sharp amid failures.
Education is the greatest gift one can give to the next generation.
In chemistry, precision is not optional; it is essential.
The joy of discovery outweighs any hardship.
Science knows no gender; talent does not discriminate.
Every failure is a step toward success in research.
The nucleus of the atom holds mysteries we are only beginning to unravel.
Family and science can coexist harmoniously.
Beware of those who fear the power of knowledge.
Laughter is the best antidote to experimental frustration.
True wisdom comes from questioning the established truths.
My work with Frédéric shows collaboration's strength.
Isotopes are nature's way of varying the theme.
Peace requires scientific understanding among nations.
The lab is where dreams become reality.
Never underestimate the power of a determined mind.
Radiation's dual nature demands ethical use.
Memories of my parents fuel my passion for science.
Contemporaries of Irène Joliot-Curie
Other Chemistrys born within 50 years of Irène Joliot-Curie (1897–1956).