On the Centenary of the Birth of Academician I.N. Blokhina

Abstract

Background: April 21, 2021 marks the centenary of the birth of Irina N. Blokhina – a world-famous scientist, Academician of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Laureate of the USSR State Prize, and Honorary Citizen of the city of Nizhny Novgorod. For 44 years, Dr. Blokhina headed the Nizhny Novgorod (Gorky) Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology. The objective of this paper is to reflect and analyze the historical role of the personality in the development of new research areas, achievement of outstanding scientific results, and education of younger generations of scientists on the example of the life path of Dr. Blokhina, whose name is associated with the most productive times in the history of the institute. Materials and methods: In preparing the present article, we analyzed extensive archival materials, scientific and media publications, and memoirs of contemporaries. Findings: We describe how the breadth of scientific outlook of this eminent scientist, her deep and comprehensive erudition, and a constant thirst for new knowledge allowed her to see and effectively solve the most pressing problems of fundamental science and practical health care. Professor Blokhina devoted her entire life to medical science by developing priority science trends in biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, biotechnology, and molecular biology. Conclusions: The personality of Academician Irina N. Blokhina demonstrates how purposefulness, creative attitude to assigned tasks, and a high degree of responsibility enable a person to achieve top results in science and life. Our findings may be particularly useful in education of the younger generation of scientists.