Martha Annie Whiteley
(1866-1956), Editor of Thorpes Dictionary of Applied ChemistrySitter in 1 portrait
A pioneering chemist, known for her efforts during World War I and campaigns for women in science. In 1920 Whiteley became assistant professor at the Royal College of Science, which became part of Imperial College in 1907. During World War I she worked with Jocelyn Thorpe, developing drugs to treat soldiers and gases that could be used in conflict, including mustard gas. She was appointed OBE in 1920 for her services during the War. With eighteen female chemists she produced a petition demanding the Chemical Society change their men only admission policy. She would eventually become the society's first woman member in 1928. Alfred Keogh asserted that he knew 'no one more likely to inspire women students to great things in science'.
Comments back to top
We are currently unable to accept new comments, but any past comments are available to read below.
If you need information from us, please use our Archive enquiry service . Please note that we cannot provide valuations. You can buy a print or greeting card of most illustrated portraits. Select the portrait of interest to you, then look out for a Buy a Print button. Prices start at around £6 for unframed prints, £16 for framed prints. If you wish to license an image, select the portrait of interest to you, then look out for a Use this image button, or contact our Rights and Images service. We digitise over 8,000 portraits a year and we cannot guarantee being able to digitise images that are not already scheduled.