A pioneering neurophysiologist and supporter of allowing women to pursue studies in the sciences despite a prevailing gender bias, Dr. Ida Henrietta Hyde (1857-1945) was the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in science at Heidelberg University in Germany. She pursued original zoological research on animal cardiac movement, circulation, respiration, and nervous systems. In addition to laboratory work, teaching, and scholarly writing, Hyde assisted other women locate scholarships, education, and jobs suited to their talents and professional aspirations.

Born in Davenport, Iowa, on September 8, 1857, Henrietta Hyde was one of four children born to Chicago businesswoman Babette Loewenthal and Meyer Heidenheimer, a merchant. The Heidenheimers altered their surname to Hyde after emigrating from Germany. Her mother supported the family, who lost both residence and business in the great Chicago Fire of 1870.

Advancement by Slow Degrees

In her teens, Hyde apprenticed at hat-making at an urban clothing factory and...