Giuseppe Brotzu (1895-1976) was a physician, pharmacologist, politician and for over thirty years Professor of Hygiene in the Medical Faculty of the University of Cagliari. He had a pivotal role in the academic, political and social life of Sardinia. As Rector of the University of Cagliari and Superintendent of Public Health he led the campaign against malaria. He later held the prestigious offices of Mayor of the City of Cagliari and of President of the Sardinian Government. As a scientist his fame is due to his 1948 discovery and isolation of the Cephalosporin antibiotic that he made at the end of the 2nd World War, with the help of his friend and pupil Antonio Spanedda. For his contribution to science he was awarded in 1971 the honorary degree in Science by the Oxford University and in 1972 the Diploma by the National Research Development Corporation.