About John Ulric Nef
Lived 1862 – 1915 (aged 53). John Ulric Nef was an American and Swiss chemist, known for Nef isocyanide reaction, Nef reaction and Nef synthesis.
John Ulric Nef (née Johann Ulrich Nef; June 14, 1862 – August 13, 1915) was a Swiss-born American chemist and the discoverer of the Nef reaction and Nef synthesis. He was a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Sciences.
He was a professor at Purdue University from 1887 till 1889 and at Clark University from 1889 until 1892. In 1892, Nef joined the newly formed University of Chicago as professor of chemistry, where he spent the rest of his academic career.
His son John Ulric Nef (1899–1988) became a professor of economic history and published several books.
Work The discovery of the Nef reaction and the papers about divalent carbon (carbenes) were his major achievements.
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Frequently asked questions
Who was John Ulric Nef?
American chemist (1862–1915)
When was John Ulric Nef born?
John Ulric Nef was born on 14 June 1862 in Herisau.
When did John Ulric Nef die?
John Ulric Nef died on 13 August 1915 in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
What was John Ulric Nef's occupation?
John Ulric Nef was a chemist.
What was John Ulric Nef known for?
John Ulric Nef was known for Nef isocyanide reaction, Nef reaction and Nef synthesis.
What nationality was John Ulric Nef?
John Ulric Nef was American and Swiss.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: John Ulric Nef (chemist)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). John Ulric Nef. https://biography.guide/john-ulric-nef/
MLA: "John Ulric Nef." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/john-ulric-nef/.
Chicago: "John Ulric Nef." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/john-ulric-nef/.
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