Rita Levi Montalcini

After centuries of dormancy, young women can now look toward a future moulded by their own hands. 

Rita Levi Montalcini was born in 1909 in Italy and had always wanted to be a writer. But after her grandmother passed away suffering from cancer, she decided to become a doctor. Her father was afraid that this decision could make her less attractive for men (Who will be looking after children in the future? Who will be cooking? - he was asking, I supppose) but finally said yes. By the way, Rita has never married and had no children. But has never regretted. She died at the age of 103.

Montalcini was fascinated by neurons. After graduation she started a cooperation with Giuseppe Levi, a prominent professor. But let's have a look at their surnames. Being a jew just before WWII and working at a university don't go hand in hand. They had to run away from Italy and went to Belgium. But after a moment, this country wasn't safe either. So they run away, again. And again, and again. Such conditions don't foster scientifical research, right?

But she didn't give in. Rita arranged a small laboratory in her own room. On a small operating table she analysed chickens' cells using a microscope. Her courage and diligence were recognised. In 1986 Rita Levi Montalcini was awarded Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for her discovery in neurobiology.

Have a look at this short video - interview with Rita Levi Montalcini