Born: 1885 (Burwell, Cambridgeshire, England)
Died: 1948
Biography:
Marjory Stephenson MBE FRS ARRC (24 January 1885 – 12 December 1948) was a British biochemist who made significant contributions to the field of microbiology and enzymology. She is best known for her pioneering research on bacterial metabolism and for her role in establishing the Society for General Microbiology. Stephenson’s groundbreaking work and leadership in her field earned her numerous awards and recognition, making her a prominent figure in the history of women in science.
Stephenson was born on January 24, 1885, in Burwell, a village on the edge of The Fens in Cambridgeshire, England. Her father, Robert Stephenson, was a farmer, surveyor, and owner of a cement-manufacturing company, while her mother was Sarah Rogers. Growing up in a family with strong ties to the local community, Stephenson was instilled with a sense of responsibility and ambition from an early age.
Inspired by her governess Anna Jane Botwright, Stephenson developed a passion for science. She attended the Berkhamsted School for Girls in Hertfordshire before enrolling at Newnham College, Cambridge, in 1903. At a time when women were still excluded from certain laboratories, Stephenson overcame these barriers by studying Natural Sciences and taking courses in chemistry, physiology, and zoology. She particularly excelled in her studies and became interested in the emerging field of biochemistry.
After graduating from Cambridge, Stephenson initially intended to pursue a career in medicine. However, due to financial constraints, she shifted her focus and became a domestic science teacher. She taught at Gloucester County Training College and later at King’s College of Household Science in London. It was during this time that she developed a strong interest in nutrition.
Stephenson’s life took a significant turn when she was invited by Robert Plimmer, co-founder of the Biochemical Club (later Society), to join his laboratory at University College London as a researcher. In this role, she conducted groundbreaking research on fat metabolism and taught nutrition. Her work garnered attention, and in 1913, Stephenson was awarded a prestigious Beit Memorial Fellowship. Unfortunately, her research was interrupted by the outbreak of World War I, as she joined the British Red Cross Society and dedicated herself to running hospital kitchens.
Following the war, Stephenson continued her scientific pursuits and focused her research on bacterial metabolism. In 1930, she published her seminal work, Bacterial Metabolism, which went on to become a standard textbook in the field of microbiology for generations to come. Her research significantly expanded our understanding of enzymology and the chemical processes that occur within bacteria.
Not only was Stephenson a brilliant scientist, but she also played a crucial role in shaping the field of microbiology. In 1945, she became one of the first two women to be elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, alongside Kathleen Lonsdale. This recognition marked a significant milestone for women in science and paved the way for future generations of female scientists.
Stephenson’s impact extended beyond her research and academic achievements. She was a founding member of the Society for General Microbiology and served as its second president. In recognition of her contributions, the society established the Marjory Stephenson Memorial Lecture, which is now known as the Marjory Stephenson Prize Lecture. This prestigious award is presented biennially to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of microbiology.
Throughout her life, Stephenson faced numerous challenges and setbacks, including financial constraints and societal barriers against women in science. However, her perseverance, dedication, and immense talent allowed her to overcome these obstacles and leave a lasting legacy in the scientific community. Today, she is remembered not only for her groundbreaking research but also for her pioneering role as a female scientist. Marjory Stephenson’s contributions continue to inspire and empower women in science, making her a true trailblazer in the field of microbiology.
Awards:
– Fellow of the Royal Society (1945)
– Marjory Stephenson Prize Lecture established by the Society for General Microbiology (1953)