Eva Philbin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eva Philbin
|
|
|---|---|
Eva Philbin
|
|
| Born |
Eva Maria Ryder
4 January 1914 Ballina, County Mayo, Ireland
|
| Died | 24 June 2005 (aged 91) |
| Citizenship | Ireland |
| Alma mater | University College Galway |
| Spouse(s) | John Madden Philbin |
| Children | Eimear, Deirdre, Liam |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Chemistry |
| Institutions |
|
| Doctoral advisor | Thomas S. Wheeler |
| Other academic advisors | Tom Dillon, Vlado Prelog |
Eva Philbin (born January 4, 1914 – died June 24, 2005) was a brilliant Irish chemist. She made history as the first woman to lead the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland. Her work helped us understand natural chemicals better.
Eva Philbin was a true pioneer in science. She opened doors for many women in chemistry. She also cared deeply about helping people with learning difficulties.
Contents
Early Life and Studies
Eva Maria Ryder was born in Ballina, County Mayo, Ireland. She loved learning from a young age. Eva studied at University College Galway. There, she earned her B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees with top honors.
During her studies, Eva worked with Professor Tom Dillon. They studied carbohydrates found in seaweed. This early research showed her talent for discovery.
Starting Her Chemistry Career
In 1939, Eva began her career as an industrial chemist. This means she worked for a company that made chemicals. She became the chief chemist at Hygeia Ltd in Galway. This was during World War II.
The war made it hard to get many chemicals. Eva was in charge of finding new ways to make them. She developed alternative sources for important chemicals. This work was very important for the country.
Research and Teaching at UCD
In 1945, Eva Philbin joined University College, Dublin (UCD). She worked with Professor Thomas S. Wheeler. Together, they started a research group. They focused on Natural Product Chemistry. This field studies chemicals found in nature.
In 1958, Eva earned a special degree called a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.). She received it for her published work on flavinoids. Flavinoids are natural compounds found in plants. They can have health benefits.
Leading the Chemistry Department
Eva became a professor of organic chemistry in 1962. Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-based compounds. In 1963, she took over as the head of the chemistry department at UCD. She continued her research on flavinoids.
She also studied related compounds and possible anti-cancer agents. She worked with other scientists at UCD. Her research helped us learn more about these important natural chemicals.
A Leader in Science
Eva Philbin had a long and successful career. She became a fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry. She was also a member of important councils. These included the Royal Irish Academy and the Natural Science Council.
Eva was the first woman to lead the National Science Council. She was also the first female senior vice-president of the Royal Irish Academy. In 1966, she became the first woman president of the Institute of Chemistry. These were huge achievements for women in science.
Honoring Her Legacy
Since 2007, a special award has been named after her. The Institute of Chemistry of Ireland holds the Eva Philbin Public Lecture Series. This series honors her contributions to chemistry. It also inspires new generations of scientists.
Beyond Science
Eva Philbin's interests were not just in science. She cared deeply about people with learning difficulties. She became the head of the Consultative Council on Mental Handicap. She also helped lead the National Association for the Mentally Handicapped of Ireland.
Eva Philbin passed away in 2005 at the age of 91. Her legacy continues to inspire many.
External Resources
- List of Eva Philbin's Scientific Contributions, Researchgate
- Pioneering Women Professors
