Colleagues Praise Avery

Researchers and Avery's colleagues say that she has pioneered some of the most important work in her field.

"She's a fantastic woman who's accomplished a great deal," says Joseph D. Brain, Drinker professor of environmental physiology at the Harvard School of Public Health. "She's a really spectacular scientist, and a great role model."

Brian says that Avery has pioneered good medical management of premature babies in addition to her other work.

"She's really helped usher in the age of the neonatal intensive care unit," he says. "She and others have seen the number of infant deaths fall."

H. William Taeusch, a researcher who worked with Avery for more than 20 years, says that Avery's research with surfactant has influenced neonatal care around the globe.

"Most premature babies around the world are now treated with surfactant," he says. In addition, she has trained people in neonatal units all over the world, he says.

"She is a world leader in pediatrics," says Taeusch. "I was lucky to work with her."