Born: 1919 (Halmstad, Sweden)
Died: 2014 (Location unknown)
Biography:
Sonja Lyttkens (26 August 1919 – 18 December 2014) was a Swedish mathematician, known for her groundbreaking work in the field and her significant contributions to promoting gender equality in academia. She was the third woman in Sweden to earn a mathematics doctorate and the first to secure a permanent university position in the field.
Lyttkens was born on August 26, 1919, in Halmstad, Sweden. Growing up in Halmstad and later in Karlskrona, she developed a passion for mathematics from an early age. In 1930, her family moved to Kalmar, where she continued her education. In 1937, she relocated once again to Uppsala to pursue a degree in mathematics.
Although she faced interruptions due to marriage and motherhood, Lyttkens persevered in her studies. She earned a licentiate degree in 1951 and went on to complete her Ph.D. at Uppsala University in 1956. Her dissertation, titled The Remainder In Tauberian Theorems, explored Tauberian theorems and was jointly supervised by esteemed mathematicians Arne Beurling and Lennart Carleson.
Lyttkens’ achievement of becoming the third woman to earn a doctorate in mathematics in Sweden was a significant milestone in a time when opportunities for women in academia were limited. Prior to Lyttkens, Louise Petrén-Overton and Ingrid Lindström had obtained doctorates in mathematics but were unable to secure university positions due to prevailing societal restrictions.
In addition to her groundbreaking research, Lyttkens played a crucial role in advocating for gender equality in academia. She actively worked towards making the academic environment more inclusive and less hostile to women. Her efforts drew attention to the flaws in the Swedish taxation system, which provided income deductions for husbands of non-working wives. Through her observations, Lyttkens highlighted the pressures faced by women, even in low-income families, to forgo work. Her insights piqued public discourse and ultimately contributed to Sweden implementing separate taxation for married individuals.
Lyttkens’ commitment to fostering gender equality went beyond her research and advocacy efforts. In 1963, she secured a senior lecturer position at Uppsala University, becoming the first woman to hold a permanent university position in mathematics in Sweden. Additionally, in 1970, she became the university’s first female inspektor, an honorary chair of a student union, representing the Kalmar nation. Her achievements paved the way for future generations of women mathematicians, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and challenge societal barriers.
Outside of her academic career, Lyttkens had a rich personal life. She was the daughter of acclaimed Swedish sculptor Anna Petrus and noted physician Harald Lyttkens. Two of her children, Ulla Lyttkens and Harald Hamrell, went on to become accomplished film actors and directors.
Even after retiring in 1984, Lyttkens remained active in the arts. She had a passion for painting watercolors, which she pursued both before and after her retirement. Her vibrant artwork was exhibited in several exhibitions, showcasing her talent and creativity beyond the realm of mathematics.
Sonja Lyttkens left an indelible mark on mathematics and the fight for gender equality in academia. Her groundbreaking research, advocacy, and perseverance continue to inspire aspiring mathematicians, particularly women, to strive for excellence and seek equal opportunities.