Lester A. Mitscher

Dr. Mitscher specialized in the search for new antimicrobial agents and was a key player in the development of both tetracycline- and quinolone-based agents. A notable example of his work in this area was the isolation of novel antioxidants from green tea. The work attracted intense interest from the profession and the media. He was also instrumental in shaping the reputation of the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy.

Mitscher joined the KU faculty in 1975. He served as chairman of the medicinal chemistry department for 16 years. In addition to numerous awards and honors throughout his career at KU, Mitscher co-authored or edited six books and was the senior author of nearly 250 scientific papers.

“Les was a gentleman scholar and leaves a remarkable legacy as a scientist and educator,” said Tom Prisinzano, Department of Medicinal Chemistry chair. “We will miss him dearly and are thankful for the countless contributions he made to the department, school and the profession.”