The article introduces one of the most outstanding biochemists of the Second Republic of Poland: Jakub Karol Parnas. His scientific research played a key role in understanding the fundamental biochemical process of glycolysis. The scientific career of Jakub Karol Parnas is also a symbol of the unique intellectual atmosphere of Galicia in the 20s and 30s of the last century. Parnas's scientific achievements and research are an inspiring story of scientific success achieved in a place far from world science centers. This success was due to talent, determination and scientific passion, as well as the favorable environment of the Jan Kazimierz University in Lviv.