Astrid Cleve

Swedish botanist, chemist, and geologist

Astrid Cleve von Euler

Astrid Maria Cleve von Euler (22 January 1875 – 8 April 1968) was a pioneering Swedish botanist, chemist, and geologist. She was the first woman in Sweden to earn a doctorate in science, and her work spanned several disciplines, including botany, chemistry, and geology.

Early Life and Education

Astrid Cleve was born in Uppsala, Sweden, into a family with a strong scientific background. Her father, Per Teodor Cleve, was a renowned chemist and professor at Uppsala University. Encouraged by her father, Astrid developed an early interest in the natural sciences.

Cleve attended Uppsala University, where she studied under prominent scientists of the time. In 1898, she became the first woman in Sweden to receive a doctorate in science, with a dissertation focused on the phytoplankton of the Baltic Sea.

Career

After completing her doctorate, Cleve worked as a lecturer and researcher. Her early research focused on phytoplankton and diatoms, contributing significantly to the understanding of these microorganisms and their ecological roles. She published numerous papers on the taxonomy and distribution of diatoms, which are a major group of algae.

In addition to her work in botany, Cleve made significant contributions to geology and chemistry. She conducted research on the geochemistry of sedimentary rocks and the mineralogy of Sweden. Her interdisciplinary approach allowed her to make connections between different scientific fields, enhancing the understanding of natural processes.

Personal Life

In 1902, Astrid Cleve married Hans von Euler-Chelpin, a German-Swedish biochemist who later won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1929. The couple had five children, and their son, Ulf von Euler, also became a Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine in 1970.

Despite her family responsibilities, Cleve continued her scientific work throughout her life. She was known for her determination and dedication to science, often working from home while raising her children.

Legacy

Astrid Cleve's contributions to science were groundbreaking, particularly in a time when women faced significant barriers in academia. Her work laid the foundation for future research in phytoplankton ecology and geochemistry.

Cleve's legacy is remembered not only for her scientific achievements but also for her role as a trailblazer for women in science. Her perseverance and success have inspired generations of female scientists.

Related Pages

• Phytoplankton
• Diatoms
• Geochemistry
• Uppsala University
• Hans von Euler-Chelpin
• Ulf von Euler