"Peter Mitchell, who formulated the chemiosmotic theory, brought about a profound revolution in the way biologists understand the use of energy by living things. Essentially, Mitchell was that rare breed of scientist, a theoretical biologist. He believed in thinking about science almost as an activity in its own right, and, unlike his older contemporary- Hans Krebs, Mitchell proposed complex theories before proceeding to test them. His achievements brought him the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1978.

This biography explores Mitchell's life in Cambridge, Edinburgh, and ultimately at Glynn, the private research institute he created. This book examines the many disputes in which this controversial scientist was involved."--BOOK JACKET.