The Ph.D. degree earned by Cecilia Krieger at the University of Toronto in 1930 marked a milestone as the first mathematics doctorate awarded to a woman in Canada. Born in Jasło in 1894, she navigated shifting borders and relocation to build a career as a mathematician and educator, ultimately leaving an enduring mark on Canadian mathematical research.
Academic Formation
Born on 9 April 1894 in Jasło, Galicia—then part of Austria-Hungary—Krieger began her higher education at the University of Vienna in 1919. In 1920, she relocated to Toronto, Ontario. She continued her studies at the University of Toronto, completing her B.A. in 1924 and her M.A. in 1925. Her doctoral thesis, "On the summability of trigonometric series with localized parameters—on Fourier constants and convergence factors of double Fourier series," was supervised by W.J. Webber.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Career at the University of Toronto
Krieger joined the University of Toronto faculty as an instructor in 1928 while working toward her degree. Upon receiving her doctorate in 1930, she transitioned to the role of lecturer. She maintained this rank for over a decade before her promotion to assistant professor in 1942. During her tenure, she instructed students within both the engineering and mathematics departments until her retirement in 1962.
Contributions to Topology
Her scholarly work included the translation of fundamental texts by Wacław Sierpiński, which helped disseminate research in general topology to an English-speaking audience. In 1934, she translated "Introduction to General Topology," followed by the 1952 translation of "General Topology," to which she added a 30-page appendix concerning infinite cardinals and ordinals.
Later Years
Following her official 1962 retirement, Krieger remained active in academia for another twelve years. She continued teaching at the University of Toronto for five years, concluding that engagement in 1968 after the death of her husband, Dr. Zygmund Dunaij, whom she had married in 1953. She subsequently spent six years teaching at Upper Canada College until her death in 1974.
Fast facts
- Born: 9 April 1894, Jasło
- Died: 17 August 1974, Ontario
- Citizenship: Canada
- Education: University of Vienna, University of Toronto
- Key Contribution: Translation of Sierpinski's General Topology
- PhD Completion Year: 1930
- Award Named After Her: Krieger–Nelson Prize
- Languages: Polish, English
Questions readers ask
What was Cecilia Krieger's primary contribution to mathematics?
She is recognized for her academic teaching career and for translating two influential works on general topology by Wacław Sierpiński.
What is the significance of the Krieger–Nelson Prize?
Established in 1995 by the Canadian Mathematical Society, the prize honors outstanding research by female mathematicians.
Achievements
- Affiliated with University of Toronto and Upper Canada College
- Educated at University of Toronto and University of Vienna
- Worked as mathematician and professor
