Fleur L Strand

Fleur L. Strand, a native of South Africa, both began and ended her distinguished career at NYU, where she received her BA, MS, and PhD, and served as a faculty member from 1961 to her retirement in 1997. Dr. Strand was a physiologist who broke new ground both in her research and in advancing the role of women in science. In her research, Dr. Strand was a pioneer of the neuropeptide concept. One of her most notable discoveries was that ACTH, the hormone that controls the adrenal glands, has an effect on nerves and muscles. Additionally, her research on lab rats indicated that the offspring of women who smoke or are exposed to high levels of stress during pregnancy could have sexual problems later in life, such as reduced libido. Dr. Strand began teaching at NYU Biology in 1961. In 1980, she became the department's first female chair. She was the Carroll and Milton Petrie Professor of Biology at NYU from 1991 to 1997, and also a Professor of Neural Science. During this time, Dr. Strand mentored over 80 graduate student dissertations, authored multiple textbooks and primary research and review article s, and co-founded several professional societies, including the International Neuropeptide Society. She also received the NYU Distinguished Teaching Medal in 1995. Dr. Strand died the age of 83 on December 23, 2011. PhD - New York University (1952) Carroll and Milton Petrie Professor (1991-1997) Acting Chair of Biology (1980-1982 and 1989-1990) Professor (1973-1977) Associate Professor (1966-1973) Assistant Professor (1961-1966)