Aleksandr Borodin

Aleksandr Borodin (1833-1887) is one of the great Russian composers of 19th century, even though he was an autodidact. His music is played and admired all over the world still today. His foremost interest was however scientific research and teaching. As a chemist he was a great authority in Russia as well as in Europe. He is remembered today in scientific history due to his discovery of the so called Borodin-reaction.

Borodin's teaching had a large impact. His approach to teaching together with his kind ways and patience attracted a lot of students to his classes. He elevated the status of Russian science, which at the time was far behind the European and he taught many of the foremost Russian chemists and doctors to come.

He was also strongly against the fact that women not were allowed to attend higher education in Russia, and welcomed several women to his laboratory and took part in the movement trying to abolish that restriction. Eventually he succeeded and taught many women physicians as well as chemists.