One of The Neuro’s top neuroscientists has been recognized by the Governor General of Canada for her groundbreaking research.
On Nov. 21, 2019, the office of Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, appointed Dr. Hanna Pappius to the Order of Canada, one of the nation’s highest honours. The Order recognizes those “whose service shapes our society; whose innovations ignite our imaginations; and whose compassion unites our communities.”
Dr. Pappius was born in Poland and completed her scientific education at McGill University with a B.Sc. in 1946, a M.Sc. in 1948 and a PhD in 1952. Over more than 40 years as a researcher at The Neuro, she made significant contributions to her field by pursuing studies on cerebral edema, a build up of fluid around the brain causing an increase in pressure. Cerebral edema is often caused by brain injury, and Dr. Pappius also studied the effects of brain injury on neurotransmitter and receptor mechanisms. Dr. Pappius published more than 100 scientific papers over her distinguished career. She also co-authored a book entitled Brain Electrolytes and Fluid Metabolism, now considered a classic in the field.
Among her numerous honours are the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada in recognition of significant contribution to compatriots, community and to Canada (1992), the 1993 Award from the Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs for her outstanding contribution to the advancement of Polish culture in the world and a Lifetime Achievement Award (2005) in recognition to her lifelong commitment to The Neuro. In 2009 the honorific Emerita Professor was conferred upon her by McGill University in recognition of her years of devoted and meritorious service as Full Professor.
Following her retirement from lab science in 1995, Dr. Pappius remained active with The Neuro as Chair of the Animal Care Committee and Co-chair of the Research Ethics Board, both critically important for the research enterprise.
Photo credit:
Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall © OSGG, 2019.
