Madeleine P. Grant
Madeleine P. Grant (1895-1974) was a prominent American biologist and educator known for her contributions to microbiology and her advocacy for women's roles in science. She graduated from Simmons College and earned both her master's degree and Ph.D. from Radcliffe College in Massachusetts. Grant served on the faculty at Sarah Lawrence College from 1933 to 1963, where she influenced many students in the field of biology. Her academic work was complemented by her authorship of several notable books, including biographies of influential scientists Alice Hamilton, who addressed industrial health issues, and Louis Pasteur, known for his groundbreaking discoveries in germ theory. Grant's biography of Pasteur received acclaim for its engaging narrative that effectively intertwined his personal and professional life. Throughout her career, she received recognition through fellowships aimed at promoting research in biomedical sciences and supporting women in scientific fields. Despite facing scrutiny during the Cold War, she was never formally investigated. Grant's legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and educators.
On this Page
Subject Terms
Madeleine P. Grant
Writer
- Born: March 24, 1895
- Died: October 1, 1974
- Place of death: Cranston, Rhode Island
Biography
Madeleine Parker Grant was born in 1895. She graduated from Simmons College with her bachelor’s degree. Grant earned her master’s degree and her Ph.D. at Radcliffe College in Massachusetts. She worked as a faculty member at Sarah Lawrence College as a member of the biology department from 1933 to 1963. During the Cold War, she was listed in a letter by Harold Taylor from the Senate subcommittee investigating “un- American” activities. However, she was never actually called before the Senate.
In addition to her work as an educator, Grant wrote several books on the subject of microbiology. She also wrote biographies of scientists Alice Hamilton and Louis Pasteur. Hamilton’s work on industrial diseases caused widespread changes to unsanitary factory conditions, improving the health of workers. Pasteur discovered that most diseases are caused by germs, revolutionizing science at that time. Grant’s biography about Pasteur was praised by reviewers for her skill at balancing the story of Pasteur’s personal life with his professional achievements and managing to describe his work in clear and understandable language.
During her lifetime, Grant was honored with two fellowships: the Whitney Fellowship, which supports postdoctoral research in the biomedical sciences, and the Margaret Snell Fellowship of the American Association of University Women, which is offered to provide funds for the advancement of women in science. She died in 1974.