[Neuropathologist and brain researcher Lieselotte Gerhard (1925-2010)].

BACKGROUND

To date, little research has been conducted on the lives and contributions of the first women appointed as professors of medicine in Germany. Lieselotte Gerhard was one of these first female professors in the fields of pathology and neuropathology. The aim of this study is to address this research gap.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This study draws on Boedeker and Meyer-Plath's compilation of Germany's first female habilitation candidates, in which Lieselotte Gerhard appears under pathology and neuropathology. Based on Gerhard's publications, as well as archival sources, secondary literature, and interviews, her research work and biography were reconstructed and contextualised.

RESULTS

The researcher's biography reveals a remarkable life path for her time. Gerhard began her studies with the distinguished brain researchers Oskar and Cécile Vogt and held many esteemed positions, including international ones. Finally, she established her own institute at the University of Essen as Germany's first female professor of neuropathology. Overall, her research was characterized by a close integration of clinical and pathological perspectives. With her habilitation thesis, she succeeded in publishing a contemporary standard reference work.

DISCUSSION: Overall, Gerhard made a significant contribution to the development of her field. Through her determination and perseverance she was able to challenge and overcome existing gender barriers. Her achievements therefore merit renewed attention and presentation.