# Kamala Sohonie > Indian biochemist (1911–1998) **Wikidata**: [Q7406](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7406) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamala_Sohonie) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kamala-sohonie ## Summary Kamala Sohonie (1911–1998) was an Indian biochemist and researcher who made significant contributions to the field of biochemistry. She is recognized as one of the pioneering women scientists in India and was affiliated with leading institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Cambridge. ## Biography - Born: 18 June 1911 - Nationality: Indian - Education: Indian Institute of Science, University of Cambridge - Known for: Pioneering contributions to biochemistry and being among the first female biochemists in India - Employer(s): Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru; University of Cambridge - Field(s): Biochemistry, scientific research ## Contributions Kamala Sohonie conducted groundbreaking research in biochemistry, particularly in the areas of protein chemistry and metabolism. Her work contributed to the understanding of biochemical processes in the early to mid-20th century. She was among the first women to pursue higher studies in science in India and worked in institutions that were at the forefront of scientific research, including the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Cambridge. Her research laid foundational work for future studies in enzymatic activity and protein structures, although specific publications or patents are not cited in the source material. ## FAQs ### Where was Kamala Sohonie educated? Kamala Sohonie was educated at the University of Mumbai and later pursued advanced studies at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru and the University of Cambridge. ### What is Kamala Sohonie known for? She is known for her pioneering work in biochemistry, particularly as one of the early female scientists in India to specialize in the field. ### What institutions was Kamala Sohonie associated with? She was affiliated with the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru and the University of Cambridge, where she conducted research in biochemistry. ### What were her major achievements? Sohonie was among the first Indian women to make significant strides in biochemical research, breaking gender barriers in science and contributing to the understanding of protein chemistry. ### What awards did Kamala Sohonie receive? She received the Rashtrapati Award, one of the highest civilian honors in India, recognizing her contributions to science. ## Why They Matter Kamala Sohonie's work was foundational in establishing women's roles in Indian science. As one of the early female biochemists in the country, she paved the way for future generations of women in science. Her research in protein chemistry and metabolism contributed to the broader understanding of biochemical processes, and her association with institutions like the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Cambridge underscores her impact on the field. Her legacy includes inspiring future Indian women scientists and contributing to the scientific community's understanding of enzymatic functions and metabolic pathways. ## Notable For - Being one of the first Indian women to specialize in biochemistry - Pioneering research in protein chemistry and metabolism - Affiliation with the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Cambridge - Receiving the Rashtrapati Award for her contributions to science - Breaking gender barriers in Indian scientific research ## Body ### Early Life and Education Kamala Sohonie was born on 18 June 1911. She showed an early interest in science and pursued higher education in a field that had few women at the time. She was among the first Indian women to study at the University of Mumbai, which was one of the leading educational institutions in India. After completing her early education, she advanced to the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, where she conducted research in biochemistry. She later pursued further studies at the University of Cambridge, where she deepened her expertise in biochemical research. ### Career and Research Sohonie’s career was marked by her association with two of the most prestigious institutions in science: the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Cambridge. At IISc, she worked on protein chemistry and metabolism, contributing to the early understanding of enzymatic activity and biochemical processes. Her research was foundational in advancing the field of biochemistry in India. She was also one of the few women in her field, breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated scientific community. ### Recognition and Awards Kamala Sohonie was honored with the Rashtrapati Award, one of the highest civilian awards in India, in recognition of her contributions to science. This award underscores her impact on Indian biochemistry and her role as a pioneering woman in the field. ### Legacy and Influence Kamala Sohonie’s legacy includes inspiring future generations of women in science. Her work in biochemistry, particularly in protein chemistry, contributed to the broader understanding of metabolic functions. Her association with institutions like the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Cambridge highlights her role in shaping early biochemical research in India. Her achievements opened doors for women in science and laid the groundwork for future research in enzymatic activity and protein structures. ### Publications and Research Focus While specific titles of her publications are not cited in the source material, her research focus was on protein chemistry and metabolism. These areas were critical in advancing the understanding of biochemical processes, and her work contributed to the foundation of modern biochemical research in India. ### Affiliations and Institutions Kamala Sohonie was associated with: - **Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru**: A premier research institution where she conducted biochemical research. - **University of Cambridge**: An institution where she deepened her expertise in biochemistry. - **University of Mumbai**: Where she pursued her early education. Her work in these institutions contributed to the development of biochemistry in India and helped establish her as one of the early female scientists in the field. ## References 1. [Source](https://www.thebetterindia.com/91026/kamala-sohonie-india-woman-scientist-iisc-cambridge/) 2. [Source](http://www.indianbotanists.com/2015/03/kamala-sohonie-woman-who-established.html) 3. [Source](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12045-016-0330-8) 4. [Source](http://www.arvindguptatoys.com/arvindgupta/bs28ksohonie.pdf)