Bourgmeisterin Episode #42: Jules Hoffmann, part 1

ARA City Radio

Today we're talking about an intrepid biology hero, a Nobel Prize winner from Luxembourg, Jules Hoffmann. Hoffmann grew up in Echternach, exploring the countryside with his dad, a biology professor who shared his love for insects. While most kids collected toys, Jules was busy marveling at bugs – and it turns out, that fascination would lead to something incredible. At Strasbourg university, Jules took a deep dive into insect immunity, trying to solve a mystery: why don’t locusts get infections after organ transplants? His research with mentor Pierre Joly uncovered a unique defense system in bugs that would change how we understand immunity forever. Despite some doubts from his parents about his career choices, Jules stuck to his passion – and years later, it all paid off when he won a Nobel Prize. From a small town in Luxembourg to one of science’s biggest honors, Jules Hoffmann’s story shows that even the smallest creatures can inspire the biggest ideas. Find out more at www.bourgmeisterin.com!