Jan 14, 2017
Carrie Derick’s 155th Birthday
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Until modern times, few women were recognized in the world of academia. Carrie Derick, a Canadian botanist and geneticist, upended that norm. Born 155 years ago today, Derick was a trailblazer who fought for women’s rights and helped pave the way for women in education.
In 1890, Derick graduated at the top of her class from Quebec’s McGill University where she would remain for her MA studies. She went on to attend the University of Bonn in Germany, where she completed enough research to earn a Ph.D in 1901. Unfortunately, she did not receive an official doctorate because the school did not award Ph.Ds to women at the time.
Derick persevered, continuing in her career as a botanist and geneticist and in 1912, became Canada’s first female professor at her alma mater, McGill University. She continued to teach there until her retirement in 1929, upon which she was made the first female professor emeritus in Canada.
Throughout her life, Derrick was an advocate for women’s rights and causes, serving as president of the Montréal Suffrage Association from 1913 to 1919.
Today’s Doodle honors Derick, a true pioneer and visionary.
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More