[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 134 (Friday, October 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1860]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING DR. JOHN FENN FOR HIS BREAKTHROUGH WORK IN MASS SPECTROMETRY 
         THAT LED TO HIS RECEIVING THE NOBEL PRIZE IN CHEMISTRY

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                            HON. ERIC CANTOR

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 11, 2002

  Mr. CANTOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. John Fenn, an 
analytical chemistry professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, for 
his breakthrough work in mass spectrometry that led to his receiving 
the Nobel Prize.
  Dr. Fenn is being recognized for developing a new way to quickly 
identify and analyze proteins through mass spectrometry, which allows 
scientists to analyze a substance through its mass. Dr. Fenn's work has 
aided researchers in their need to learn more about the interactions of 
the hundreds of thousands of different proteins that show up in the 
human body. His development has revolutionized the hunt for new 
medicines and can help in the early diagnosis of cancer.
  While Dr. Fenn, who is 85, stopped riding his bicycle to work a few 
years ago, he still has plenty of energy. He runs his own laboratory at 
VCU, maintains a full work schedule, and mentors two graduate students. 
He is known for arriving at work early and generating countless ideas. 
It is reported that his students have a hard time keeping up with him.
  Dr. Fenn's vision and commitment to his work are invaluable, and we 
are all grateful for the hope that he has generated. I am honored that 
such a remarkable citizen resides in the seventh district of Virginia.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Dr. John Fenn.

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