John Goodsir. Portrait of John Goodsir (1814-67), Scottish anatomist and cytologist. Goodsir became a professor of anatomy at Edinburgh University in 1846 and did much to restore and improve the reputation of its medical school. Goodsir attempted to apply the mathematics of structures to the understanding of living forms. A skilful microscopist, Goodsir turned his attention to the new theory of biological cells. His research advanced the understanding of cells and the secretory functions of some cell types. In later life, Goodsir applied metaphysical arguments to his work, though his research was hindered by nervous crisis and the onset of paralysis.