In The LGBT+ History Month Spotlight: Elke Mackenzie – A Trans Trailblazer of Antarctic Science

Each year, Schools OUT UK selects five LGBT+ figures whose lives and achievements align with the national LGBT+ History Month theme. This year’s theme, Science & Innovation, highlights LGBT+ pioneers whose contributions have shaped scientific understanding, healthcare, and technological progress. Over this year's celebrations, LonGBoaT Wakefield will share more information about our communities inspirational people.

By Ivan Mackenzie Lamb - https://www.bas.ac.uk/about/about-bas/history/operation-tabarin/sailing-south/, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=147444947

Elke Mackenzie, a trans woman and pioneering lichenologist, expanded global understanding of biodiversity in one of Earth’s harshest environments. Her work documenting previously unknown species during covert World War II Antarctic expeditions reshaped polar botany and lichen taxonomy.

Her journey was equally defined by courage beyond the scientific sphere. After decades of significant scientific achievement, spanning the British Museum, Argentina, Canada, and Harvard; Mackenzie transitioned in 1971. This decision, though personally vital, subjected her to institutional prejudice that curtailed her career.

Today, her story resonates deeply across the LGBT+ community: proof that despite historical erasure, trans scientists have long made vital contributions to the natural sciences. Her name lives on in multiple species; a testament to her impact on polar research.

Sources

• Wikipedia: Elke Mackenzie 

• The Wildlife Trusts: Celebrating Elke Mackenzie