Saint Albert, known as Albert the Great (c. 1200-1280), was a German philosopher, theologian, and scientist. A Dominican, he taught at several universities and was the teacher of Thomas Aquinas. He excelled in many fields: philosophy, theology, astronomy, botany, and alchemy. He sought to reconcile the Christian faith with the thought of Aristotle, profoundly influencing medieval scholasticism. Appointed Bishop of Regensburg, he resigned to devote himself to study and writing. He was canonized in 1931 and proclaimed a Doctor of the Church. He is the patron saint of scientists and philosophers.
