Kamala Sohonie was the first Indian woman to get a PhD degree in a scientific discipline. Here is a brief account of her life and her famous meeting with CV Raman.
Table of Contents
Kamala Sohonie
Kamala Sohonie (1912-1998) was a prominent Indian biochemist and the first Indian woman to earn a doctorate in a scientific discipline.
She made significant contributions to the field of enzymology and is known for her research on the metabolism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis.
Sohonie was born on March 14, 1912, in Bombay (now Mumbai), India.
She pursued her education at the University of Bombay, where she completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemistry. Afterward, she moved to England to further her studies at the University of Cambridge.
In 1939, Sohonie became the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in a scientific subject when she completed her doctoral research on the nutrition of yeast under the supervision of Marjory Stephenson at Girton College, Cambridge.
Her pioneering work laid the foundation for future research in enzymology.
Upon returning to India, Sohonie joined the Biochemistry Department at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore. She focused her research on the biochemistry of tuberculosis, which was a significant health issue in India at the time.
Sohonie studied the metabolism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and made important discoveries related to the bacterium’s nutritional requirements and enzyme activity.
Throughout her career, Sohonie faced numerous challenges and gender biases, but she remained dedicated to her scientific pursuits.
She actively promoted women’s education in science and served as a role model for aspiring women scientists in India.
Kamala Sohonie retired as the Head of the Department of Biochemistry at the Indian Institute of Science in 1977.
She continued to be associated with scientific research and education and received several honors for her contributions to the field.
Early life
Kamala Sohonie was born on March 14, 1912, in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. She grew up in a middle-class Parsi family, which belonged to the Zoroastrian community. Her father, Faredoon Byramji Sohonie, worked as a civil engineer.
From a young age, Sohonie displayed a keen interest in science and excelled in her academic pursuits. She attended Alexandra Girls’ English Institution, a prestigious school for girls in Bombay, where she received a strong foundation in academics.
After completing her secondary education, Sohonie enrolled at the University of Bombay (now the University of Mumbai) to pursue a degree in Chemistry. She excelled in her studies and earned her Bachelor’s degree in 1931, followed by a Master’s degree in 1933.
Sohonie’s academic achievements and passion for scientific research led her to seek further education and opportunities abroad. In 1936, she secured a scholarship to study at the University of Cambridge in England.
This marked a significant milestone for Sohonie as she became one of the first Indian women to pursue a Ph.D. in the sciences.
At Cambridge, Sohonie worked under the guidance of Marjory Stephenson, a renowned British biochemist.
She conducted research on the nutrition of yeast and successfully completed her doctoral studies in 1939, becoming the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline.
Kamala Sohonie’s early life experiences, coupled with her academic achievements, shaped her determination to pursue a career in scientific research.
Her groundbreaking work and contributions to biochemistry continue to inspire and empower women in the field of science in India and beyond.
Kamala Sohonie Education
Kamala Sohonie pursued her education in India and abroad, earning degrees from esteemed institutions. Here is an overview of her educational background:
Secondary Education: Sohonie completed her secondary education at Alexandra Girls’ English Institution in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. This institution provided her with a strong academic foundation.
Bachelor’s Degree: Sohonie enrolled at the University of Bombay (now the University of Mumbai) to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. She excelled in her studies and earned her undergraduate degree from the university.
Master’s Degree: Building upon her Bachelor’s degree, Sohonie continued her education at the University of Bombay. She pursued a Master’s degree in Chemistry, further deepening her knowledge in the field.
Doctoral Studies: After completing her Master’s degree, Sohonie embarked on her doctoral studies at the University of Cambridge in England.
She secured a scholarship to study abroad and joined Girton College, affiliated with the University of Cambridge.
Under the supervision of Marjory Stephenson, a renowned biochemist, Sohonie conducted her doctoral research on the nutrition of yeast.
Her groundbreaking work in this area formed the foundation for her future contributions to enzymology and biochemistry.
Sohonie’s dedication to her studies and her pursuit of advanced education allowed her to become the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline.
Her educational achievements laid the groundwork for her subsequent career as a prominent biochemist and researcher in India.
Kamala Sohonie Career and Research
After completing her Ph.D. at the University of Cambridge, Kamala Sohonie returned to India and began her illustrious career in scientific research.
She joined the Biochemistry Department at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, where she made significant contributions to the field of enzymology and tuberculosis research. Here are some highlights of her career and research:
Tuberculosis Research
Tuberculosis was a pressing health issue in India during Sohonie’s time. She dedicated her research to studying the metabolism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for causing tuberculosis.
Her work focused on understanding the nutritional requirements and enzymatic activity of the bacterium.
Enzymology
Sohonie’s research encompassed the study of enzymes, their properties, and their role in biochemical reactions.
She made important discoveries related to the enzymatic activity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and its implications for tuberculosis infection and treatment.
Nutritional Studies
Sohonie’s research involved investigating the nutritional needs of microorganisms, particularly yeast.
Her early doctoral research at the University of Cambridge focused on the nutrition of yeast, which provided a foundation for her future work in biochemistry.
Scientific Excellence
Sohonie’s research was highly regarded in the scientific community, and she presented her findings at various national and international conferences.
Her work contributed to advancements in the understanding of tuberculosis and enzymology, providing insights into the biochemical mechanisms involved in the disease.
Teaching and Mentorship
In addition to her research, Sohonie was actively involved in teaching and mentoring aspiring scientists.
She played a crucial role in training and inspiring a new generation of biochemists in India, especially women, and encouraged their pursuit of scientific careers.
Throughout her career, Kamala Sohonie faced numerous challenges and gender biases, but she persevered and made significant contributions to the field of biochemistry.
Her research on tuberculosis and enzymology has had a lasting impact on our understanding of these areas and continues to influence scientific research today.
Sohonie’s dedication to science and her role as a mentor have left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of scientists, particularly women, in India and beyond.
Kamal Sohonie and CV Raman
Kamala Sohonie and C.V. Raman were both prominent Indian scientists who made significant contributions to their respective fields.
While they both played important roles in advancing scientific knowledge in India, their areas of expertise and research focus were distinct. Here’s a brief overview of their individual backgrounds and contributions:
Kamal Sohonie
Field: Biochemistry
Notable Contributions: Sohonie was a pioneering Indian biochemist known for her research on enzymology and tuberculosis. She conducted extensive studies on the metabolism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis.
Her work provided valuable insights into the nutritional requirements and enzyme activity of the bacterium, contributing to the understanding and treatment of tuberculosis.
Accomplishments: Sohonie became the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline. She actively promoted women’s education in science and served as a mentor and inspiration for aspiring women scientists in India.
C.V. Raman
Field: Physics
Notable Contributions: Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, known as C.V. Raman, was an eminent Indian physicist. He is renowned for his groundbreaking work on the scattering of light, known as the Raman Effect.
This discovery demonstrated the inelastic scattering of photons by molecules, providing insights into the vibrational and rotational modes of molecules. Raman’s discovery had a profound impact on the field of molecular spectroscopy.
Accomplishments: Raman received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, becoming the first Asian and first non-white person to receive a Nobel Prize in the sciences.
He also served as the director of the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore and made significant contributions to the growth of scientific research and education in India.
While Kamala Sohonie and C.V. Raman were distinguished Indian scientists, their areas of specialization and research focus were distinct.
Sohonie’s expertise lay in biochemistry, particularly in the field of enzymology and tuberculosis research, while Raman made significant contributions to physics, specifically in the study of light scattering.
Kamal Sohonie Awards
Kamala Sohonie, the pioneering Indian biochemist, received recognition for her outstanding contributions to the field of science. Although specific information about individual awards she received is not readily available, her notable achievements and honors include the following:
Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences: Sohonie was elected as a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences, a prestigious honor that recognizes outstanding scientific contributions and achievements.
Scientific Recognition: Sohonie’s research and scientific contributions garnered recognition and acclaim within the scientific community. Her work on tuberculosis and enzymology, particularly her studies on the metabolism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, earned her high regard among her peers.
Her impact and legacy as a pioneering woman scientist in India remain significant, inspiring future generations of scientists, particularly women, to pursue their passions and make groundbreaking contributions to scientific research.
Kamala Sohonie Death and legacy
Kamala Sohonie passed away on June 28, 1998, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the field of biochemistry and as a trailblazer for women scientists in India.
Her contributions and achievements continue to inspire and pave the way for aspiring women scientists.
Here is a summary of her legacy
Scientific Excellence
Sohonie’s research on tuberculosis and enzymology made significant contributions to the understanding of these fields.
Her work on the metabolism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis helped shed light on the nutritional requirements and enzymatic activity of the bacterium, advancing our knowledge of tuberculosis and aiding in the development of diagnostic and treatment methods.
Gender Barrier Breaker
As the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline, Sohonie shattered gender barriers and paved the way for other women scientists in India.
Her achievements and perseverance in the face of gender biases inspired generations of women to pursue scientific careers and challenged societal norms.
Kamala Sohonie Mentorship and Advocacy
Sohonie actively promoted education and encouraged women to pursue scientific research. She mentored and inspired numerous students, particularly women, to pursue careers in biochemistry and contributed to the growth of the field in India.
Kamala Sohonie Recognition and Honors
Sohonie received several honors and accolades during her career, recognizing her exceptional contributions.
She was elected as a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences and served on various scientific committees and advisory boards.
Inspiration for Future Generations
Sohonie’s life and work serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring scientists, especially women, in India and beyond.
Her determination, scientific excellence, and advocacy for women’s education continue to motivate and empower individuals to overcome obstacles and make significant contributions to scientific research.
Kamala Sohonie’s legacy is marked by her scientific achievements, her pioneering role as a woman scientist in India, and her dedication to education and mentorship.
Her contributions have had a lasting impact on the field of biochemistry and continue to inspire the pursuit of scientific knowledge and the advancement of women in science.
FAQ
What did Kamala Sohonie invent?
From his work with potatoes, he discovered the enzyme ‘Cytochrome C’, which plays an essential role in the electron transport chain (the process by which energy is created for organisms), found in plants, human cells And animals.
You may also like