Description
Papers of Dr. Jonas Salk, noted physician, virologist, humanitarian, and founder of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies
in San Diego, California. Salk is best known for his development of the world's first successful vaccine for the prevention
of poliomyelitis, licensed in the U.S. in 1955. He also conducted important research in the prevention and treatment of influenza,
multiple sclerosis, cancer, and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The Salk Papers constitute an exhaustive source
of documentation of Dr. Salk's professional activities, but very few materials relating to his personal life. Most of the
papers cover the period from the mid-1940s to the 1980s. The papers include extensive general correspondence, files relating
to polio, subject files, writings by Dr. Salk, photographs, sound recordings, records of the Salk Institute, and other research
materials.
Background
Jonas Salk is best known for his discovery of the world's first successful vaccine for the prevention of poliomyelitis. In
addition to this accomplishment, Dr. Salk has made significant contributions to the study, prevention, and treatment of influenza,
multiple sclerosis, cancer, and other diseases. He is also known for the founding and direction of the Salk Institute for
Biological Studies in San Diego, his work for a wide variety of humanitarian endeavors, and most recently for his involvement
in AIDS research.
Extent
389 Linear feet
(847 archives boxes, 12 cartons, 59 card file boxes, 28 flat boxes, 66 art bin items, 8 map case folders, and 2 films)
Restrictions
Publication rights are held by the creator of the collection.
Availability
Material in Series 13), 22) and 26) (POLIO files) may be restricted due to personally identifiable medical information. Access
to materials in those series requires advance approval by the director of Special Collections & Archives. Series 2) also contains
polio files, but those (excepting boxes 148, 149, and 150) have been reviewed and are open for research. Series 24) DAILY
NOTES is restricted by donor agreement. Original media formats are restricted. Viewing/listening copies may be available for
researchers.