Edward "Fullmetal Alchemist" Elric is a young alchemical prodigy. He is the youngest State Alchemist ever to be recognized by the Amestris State Military, having received the title at the age of 12. Ed's primary motivation throughout the series is to return his younger brother, Alphonse, to his original body, which was lost in a failed human transmutation. Edward, despite his occasional bouts of immaturity, is a selfless boy who gains a reputation as a "hero of the people" throughout his youth. Notably, he doesn't seem concerned about returning his own arm and leg, instead focusing entirely on Al's suffering.

His State Alchemist codename, "Fullmetal," was given to him by Fuhrer Bradley, upon passing the State Alchemist certification. He refused to allow his brother to complete the test, fearing it would endanger Al, and also because he believes he is the only one who should have to bear the title of a "dog of the military." Bradley thought it was an appropriate title considering his automail arm and leg. This could also be seen as a playful knock on the boy, seeing that his brother Alphonse is the one who is truly "full metal," and the name would thus cause many cases of mistaken identity. State Alchemists are not always named for what they are, but usually for outstanding achievements in alchemy and any special alchemical traits.