Xuong Nguyen-Huu

Dr. Xuong Nguyen-Huu was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, pioneering scientist, educator, and humanitarian whose life’s work transformed the fields of protein crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. A founding professor and professor emeritus at the University of California, San Diego, he devoted more than six decades to advancing scientific discovery while mentoring future generations.

Born in Vietnam, Dr. Nguyen-Huu pursued his education in Paris before earning his Ph.D. in physics from the University of California, Berkeley. He became internationally recognized for developing innovative imaging technologies that accelerated biomedical research and contributed to major advances in modern medicine and bio-chemistry.

In addition to his scientific contributions, Dr. Nguyen-Huu was a dedicated advocate for Vietnamese refugees and helped lead humanitarian rescue efforts during the post-war refugee crisis, assisting countless families seeking safety and hope.

Xuong will be most remembered for his bright smile, humility, kindness, and deep compassion for others. He touched countless lives as a mentor, advisor, teacher, and friend, offering wisdom, encouragement, and generosity to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He embraced life with curiosity and a spirit of adventure, finding great joy in traveling the world, playing tennis, and spending time by the ocean.

Dr. Xuong Nguyen-Huu passed away surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, wisdom, compassion, and service. Beloved as a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend, he lived a life defined not only by remarkable achievement, but by deep humility and generosity toward others.

Dr. Nguyen-Huu is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Lan; his daughter, Mai; and his beloved grandchildren, Parker An and Rose Linh.