Ruth L. Kirschstein
American pathologist and science administrator
Ruth L. Kirschstein
| Born | October 12, 1926 |
|---|---|
| Birth place | Brooklyn, New York City, New York, United States |
| Died | October 6, 2009 (aged 82) |
| Place of death | Bethesda, Maryland, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Known for | Polio vaccine testing, NIH leadership |
| Awards | Lasker Award |
Ruth L. Kirschstein (October 12, 1926 – October 6, 2009) was an American pathologist and science administrator at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She was a pivotal figure in the development and testing of the polio vaccine and served in various leadership roles at the NIH, including acting director.
Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]
Ruth Kirschstein was born in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. She attended Long Island University for her undergraduate education and later received her medical degree from the Tulane University School of Medicine.
Career[edit | edit source]
Kirschstein began her career at the National Institutes of Health in the 1950s. She played a significant role in the safety testing of the polio vaccine, which was crucial in the fight against poliomyelitis. Her work contributed to the widespread use of the vaccine, which has saved countless lives.
In addition to her scientific contributions, Kirschstein held several administrative positions at the NIH. She was the first woman to direct an NIH institute, serving as the director of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) from 1974 to 1993. She also served as the acting director of the NIH on multiple occasions.
Awards and Honors[edit | edit source]
Throughout her career, Kirschstein received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Lasker Award. She was widely recognized for her contributions to medical science and public health.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Ruth L. Kirschstein's legacy continues to influence the field of medical research. The NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) was named in her honor, supporting the training of future generations of researchers.
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
Kirschstein was married to Alan S. Rabson, a fellow NIH scientist. They had one son, Arnold B. Rabson, who is also a physician and researcher.
Death[edit | edit source]
Ruth L. Kirschstein passed away on October 6, 2009, in Bethesda, Maryland.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- National Institutes of Health
- Polio vaccine
- Lasker Award
- National Institute of General Medical Sciences
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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- 1926 births
- 2009 deaths
- American pathologists
- Women pathologists
- National Institutes of Health people
- Long Island University alumni
- Tulane University alumni
- Recipients of the Lasker Award
- People from Brooklyn
- 20th-century American women scientists
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- American medical researchers
- Women medical researchers
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
