Janet Vaughan

British medical mission in Lahore, India4 (cropped)

Janet Vaughan

Dame Janet Maria Vaughan (18 October 1899 – 9 January 1993) was a prominent British physiologist and academic. She made significant contributions to the field of hematology and was instrumental in the development of blood transfusion services during World War II.

Early Life and Education

Janet Vaughan was born in Bristol, England. She was the daughter of William Vaughan, a barrister, and his wife, Madeline. Vaughan was educated at Somerville College, Oxford, where she studied medicine.

Career

After completing her medical degree, Vaughan worked at the Royal Free Hospital in London. She later joined the Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford, where she conducted pioneering research on blood transfusion and anemia.

During World War II, Vaughan played a crucial role in establishing the National Blood Transfusion Service. Her work ensured that blood supplies were available for the treatment of wounded soldiers. She also conducted research on the effects of radiation on the human body, which contributed to the understanding of radiation sickness.

Academic Contributions

In 1945, Vaughan was appointed Principal of Somerville College, Oxford, a position she held until 1967. Under her leadership, the college expanded and became a leading institution for women's education. Vaughan was also a Fellow of the Royal Society and received numerous honors for her contributions to science and medicine.

Personal Life

Janet Vaughan married David Gourlay, a fellow scientist, in 1929. The couple had two children. Vaughan was known for her dedication to her work and her commitment to improving public health.

Legacy

Janet Vaughan's work in hematology and blood transfusion has had a lasting impact on medical science. Her contributions during World War II saved countless lives, and her research continues to influence the field of medicine.

Related Pages

• Hematology
• Blood transfusion
• World War II
• Somerville College, Oxford
• Royal Society
• Radiation sickness