Sandra Claxton

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Sandra Kaye Siebels Claxton (1945–2023) was an Australian

tardigrades, microscopic organisms.[1]

Diphascon claxtonae, a species of tardigrade, is named for her.[2]

Early life and education

Claxton was born in

BSc in botany and zoology from University of Sydney.[3]

Following the birth of her son in 1972, Claxton was diagnosed with severe

PhD from Macquarie University.[3] Her PhD thesis, completed in 2004, was recognized with the Vice-Chancellor's Commendation for exceptional merit at Macquarie University.[3]

Career

Her early career involved work at the NSW Department of Agriculture's Veterinary Research Station in Glenfield.[3]

Claxton focused her research on Australian terrestrial tardigrades, a subject previously little-explored.[3] She adapted her work methods to accommodate her physical limitations, including setting up a home laboratory.[3] Her academic work resulted in the identification of over 70 new tardigrade species and notable contributions to the taxonomy of the genus Minibiotus.[3]

Research

Her research into tardigrades, often known as water bears, was conducted amidst frequent health-related interruptions, including hospitalizations and surgeries. Despite visual impairment caused by a medication side effect and her ongoing struggle with arthritis, Claxton continued her research.[3] Her 2013 review of terrestrial and marine tardigrades, co-authored with Reinhardt Kristensen, remains an influential reference in tardigrade studies.[3]

References

  1. doi:10.3853/j.0067-1975.50.1998.1276
    – via journals.australian.museum.
  2. doi:10.1080/03014223.1998.9518147
    .
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Webster, Leigh Schwartzkoff & Arthur (October 25, 2023). "The Australian who revolutionised science despite painful illness". The Sydney Morning Herald.
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