Marguerite Catherine Perey: Trailblazing Radiochemist
Early Life:
Marguerite Catherine Perey was born on October 19, 1909, in Villemomble, France. Growing up, she displayed an early interest in science, likely influenced by her father, who worked as a meteorologist. Despite facing financial constraints, Perey’s academic aptitude earned her a scholarship to the Sorbonne in Paris.
Education and Early Career:
Perey attended the University of Paris, where she studied chemistry under the guidance of Marie Curie. In 1929, at the age of 20, she joined the Radium Institute, where Curie conducted her pioneering research on radioactivity. Perey initially worked as a laboratory assistant but quickly advanced due to her exceptional skills.
Discovery of Francium:
In 1939, while working with actinium, Perey made a groundbreaking discovery. She identified a new element, which she named francium (Fr) after her home country, France. The discovery of francium was significant as it filled a gap in the periodic table and contributed to the understanding of radioactive decay.
Challenges and Recognition:
Despite her remarkable discovery, Perey faced challenges in receiving proper recognition. World War II disrupted scientific communication, and Perey’s work went unnoticed for some time. However, in 1946, she was appointed as a research director at the Radium Institute, becoming the first woman to hold that position.
Later Career and Advocacy:
Marguerite Perey continued her research on radioactivity and nuclear chemistry throughout her career. She became an advocate for the inclusion of women in scientific research and played a role in breaking down gender barriers in the scientific community.
Awards and Honors:
Perey received several awards for her contributions, including the Bédarieux Prize from the French Academy of Sciences in 1950 and the Montyon Prize in 1952. She was elected as a member of the French Academy of Sciences in 1962, further solidifying her standing in the scientific community.
Personal Life:
Marguerite Perey married Jean-Paul Lepercq, a fellow scientist, in 1939. They had two children, and despite the demands of her career, Perey was actively involved in her family life.
Death:
Marguerite Perey passed away on May 13, 1975, in Preignes-le-Neuf, France, at the age of 65. Her contributions to the field of radiochemistry and the discovery of francium remain significant in the history of science.
Marguerite Perey’s achievements paved the way for future generations of women in science. Her dedication to research, her groundbreaking discovery of francium, and her advocacy for gender equality in the scientific community make her a trailblazer in the field of radiochemistry.
