Helen Conrad Davies, celebrated scientist, ‘singing professor’ of microbiology, dies at 97

Helen Conrad Davies, 97, an award-winning scientist and professor emeritus of microbiology at the University of Pennsylvania, a vocal advocate for racial equality and women’s rights, and a revered mentor who sang to her students about infectious diseases, died March 23, of respiratory failure at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

She was one of the most memorable professors I had during medical school at Penn, because of her unique approach to teaching. In 2004-2005, she really brought our microbiology and infectious diseases courses to life.

To help students remember complex concepts, she created amusing lyrics that explained the basics of infectious diseases, set them to tunes of popular songs, and belted them out in class.

Thanks Dr Davies, for your creativity and passion.

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