Ursula Franklin (1921 – 2016)

Dr. Ursula Martius Franklin was a respected physicist known for her achievements in the field of metallurgy. She earned her Ph.D. in experimental physics in Berlin and joined the Ontario Research Foundation as a senior scientist in 1951. In 1967, Franklin was the first woman to become Professor of Metallurgy and Materials Science at the University of Toronto. A powerful advocate for women, peace and social justice, she dedicated herself to bringing a humanitarian and feminist voice to the world of science. Franklin received many honours throughout her career, including appointment to the Order of Canada and honorary degrees from several Canadian universities.

“I define peace not as the absence of war, but as the presence of justice and the absence of fear.”