Helen Redfield, American geneticist (d. 1988) [1]

Helen Redfield, an influential American geneticist whose career spanned several pivotal institutions and scientific advancements, was born on May 5, 1900, in Archbold, Ohio, and passed away in 1988. Her remarkable journey through academia and research left a significant mark on the field of genetics, particularly during its formative years in the 20th century. Redfield's dedication to scientific inquiry saw her contribute to various cutting-making research environments, often at the forefront of biological understanding.

Early Life and Formative Education

Redfield's academic prowess was evident from an early age. She matriculated at Rice University, where she distinguished herself not only by graduating in 1920 but also by contributing her talents to the mathematics department during her undergraduate studies. This early exposure to rigorous quantitative analysis likely provided a strong foundation for her later work in genetics. Demonstrating an impressive pace of academic achievement, she quickly advanced to postgraduate studies, earning her Ph.D. in zoology from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1921. This rapid progression from undergraduate completion to doctoral degree in just one year speaks volumes about her exceptional intellect and intense dedication to scientific learning.

A Distinguished Scientific Career

Her professional career commenced with notable appointments at leading institutions. In 1925, Redfield joined the faculty of Stanford University, a testament to her emerging reputation in the scientific community. During the same year, further underscoring her burgeoning academic standing, she was also appointed as a National Research Fellow at Columbia University. These prestigious positions marked the beginning of a dynamic career characterized by diverse research and teaching roles across the country.

By 1929, Redfield had moved to New York City, where she served as a teaching fellow at New York University, imparting her knowledge to the next generation of scientists. A decade later, in 1939, her expertise in genetics led her to the prestigious Kirchoff Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), a hub of groundbreaking scientific research. Her time at Caltech further solidified her contributions to the field.

During the challenging years of World War II, starting in 1942, Redfield contributed to the war effort through her scientific work. She spent her summers as a lab scientist at the renowned Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, a critical center for biological research, where she undoubtedly played a role in the scientific endeavors of that era. Her career then saw a significant period of dedication to cancer research. From 1951 until 1961, she served as a research associate at the Institute for Cancer Research, contributing her genetic insights to the complex problem of cancer, a field that was rapidly evolving during this decade.

Personal Life and Professional Identity

In 1926, Helen Redfield married fellow scientist Jack Schultz, a prominent geneticist in his own right. The couple shared a deep intellectual connection and raised two children together. Notably, Redfield chose to retain her maiden name upon her marriage. While a more common practice today, this decision in the 1920s was a less conventional choice for women, often reflecting a strong commitment to maintaining a distinct professional identity separate from one's marital status. This highlights her dedication to her scientific career and her desire to be recognized for her individual contributions to the field.

Helen Redfield's life and career exemplify the pioneering spirit of women in science during the 20th century, as she navigated significant academic and professional landscapes, leaving a lasting legacy in genetics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Helen Redfield

When and where was Helen Redfield born?
Helen Redfield was born on May 5, 1900, in Archbold, Ohio.
What was Helen Redfield's primary field of study and profession?
She was an American geneticist, a field she pursued throughout her distinguished career.
Which universities did Helen Redfield attend for her higher education?
She graduated from Rice University in 1920 and subsequently earned her Ph.D. in zoology from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1921.
What were some of the key institutions where Helen Redfield worked?
Her career included roles at Stanford University, Columbia University, New York University, the Kirchoff Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and the Institute for Cancer Research.
Did Helen Redfield marry and have children?
Yes, she married Jack Schultz in 1926, and they had two children.
Why did Helen Redfield retain her maiden name after marriage?
While the specific reasons are personal, retaining her maiden name in an era when it was less common likely underscored her strong professional identity and commitment to her scientific career, ensuring her contributions were recognized under her established name.
When did Helen Redfield pass away?
Helen Redfield passed away in 1988.