Norman H. Giles was a pioneer in genetics research who was instrumental in establishing the University of Georgia's Genetics Department in 1980. Giles most notable research was dedicated to the study of mutations of Neurospora crassa.
The Norman Giles Papers are comprised of his travel itineraries and diaries as Dr. Giles pursued his passion for visiting countries all over the globe. Throughout his travels Dr. Giles observed native birds. The collection includes some of his early birding journals based on observations in Georgia. Dr. Giles became the Fuller E. Callaway Professor of Genetics at the University of Georgia in 1972 where his work led to a greater understanding of how biochemical pathways in microorganisms are regulated.