George Pettit

Inspiring change in the area of cancer chemotherapy and organic chemistry, George Pettit was a distinguished Regents Professor and Courtesy Affiliate at Arizona State University-West, Glendale, AZ. Until his passing in 2021, he was a beacon of innovation and dedication in the field of anti-cancer drug research. Holding a Ph.D. from Wayne State University, awarded in 1956, Pettit made significant strides in the study of natural products, particularly those derived from marine life and plants, which have potential applications in cancer treatment. Throughout his illustrious career, Pettit was celebrated for his pioneering work in the total synthesis of natural products. His research was instrumental in identifying and developing novel cancer agents, which have contributed to advancements in cancer chemotherapy. His work was not only groundbreaking but also widely recognized, earning him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ernest Guenther Award from the American Chemical Society. Pettit's contributions to organic chemistry were vast, with an extensive publication record that has served as a valuable resource for researchers and students alike. His dedication to the field was evident in his relentless pursuit of knowledge and his commitment to advancing scientific understanding of natural products and their potential therapeutic applications. As a retired faculty member, Pettit continued to inspire and mentor the next generation of chemists, leaving a lasting legacy at Arizona State University and beyond. His passion for research and education was matched by his ability to foster collaboration and innovation within the scientific community. Through his work, Pettit has left an indelible mark on the field of chemistry, and his contributions continue to influence research and development in cancer chemotherapy.