Alexander Wood (1817-1884), Scottish physician. Wood invented (independently from Pravaz) the hypodermic needle. The syringe, consisting of a piston in a tube, had long been used when, in 1853, Wood thought to add a hollow needle. This could be inserted into the skin to deliver drugs quickly and effectively. Wood was elected Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (1840, President 1858-61) and Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh (1863). This photograph was published in 'Medical profession in all countries containing photographic portraits from life' (volume 1, 1873) by the Barraud and Jerrard photographic studio.