On May 17, 2021, Google celebrated the 112th birthday of Indian biochemist Kamala Sohonie with a doodle. Sohonie was the first woman to earn a degree in biochemistry from the University of Mumbai in 1931, and went on to obtain her PhD from the University of Cambridge in 1938.
Sohonie’s pioneering research on protein metabolism contributed greatly to the understanding of metabolic disorders such as diabetes. She also made significant contributions to the growth and development of biochemistry as a field in India, working as a researcher, teacher, and administrator.
Despite facing gender and race-based discrimination throughout her career, Sohonie persevered and left a legacy of scientific excellence and determination. Google’s doodle serves as a tribute to her groundbreaking work and the impact of her contributions to the field of biochemistry.
Today, we celebrate the birth anniversary of Kamala Sohonie, a trailblazer in the field of science who broke many glass ceilings in her career.
Sohonie was the first woman to obtain a degree in chemical engineering from an Indian university, the University of Mumbai. She then went on to become the first woman to attend and graduate from the prestigious University of Cambridge’s Department of Chemical Engineering and later became its first female Indian lecturer.
Despite facing discrimination as a woman in the field of science, Sohonie persevered and continued to make significant contributions to her field. She was a pioneer in the science of brewing and malting, and her research and inventions helped to improve the quality of beer and other alcoholic beverages.
Sohonie’s inspiring legacy continues to inspire generations of young women to pursue their dreams and break down barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. On her birth anniversary, we honor her achievements and celebrate her life.
