Tatyana Petrovna Sizova - outstanding mycologist and teacher - was born in 1916.

T.P. Sizova often said: "But for fate, I would have been a ballerina... ". That would occur, certainly, because she had many abilities and could gain the posed aims. But the fact that she, being a girl lost a leg and did not become a ballerina, has become the advantage to mycological science. T.P. Sizova was devoted to her speciality, to her Chair of Mycology & Algology, to the Faculty of the Lomonosov Moscow State University, where she worked till the end of her life.

T.P. Sizova was expert in all fields of botany - she excellently knew algae, lichens, fungi, mixomycetes, and in erudition on dwelling in soil micromicetes she had no equal. But the question was not only in erudition. T.P. Sizova was absolutely smooth and ever willing person. Biologists and all those, who needed to define fungi, came to her and she did not refused anyone. Her benevolence, attentiveness and readiness to help were infinite. At last in her life "Day of Tatyana" (name day) she had to take compliments uninterruptedly since 9 a.m. till 12 p.m.

T.P. Sizova was excellent teacher - exigent and well-wishing at the same time. She attracted students not only by her erudition, but also curiosity and ability to comport friendly. Students loved her and most of were in touch with her many years after graduating.

T.P. Sizova was also the person, adhered to scientific and ethic principles, and in difficult situations could stand up for them. She did not lose optimism in difficult situations, and that likely helped to keep up her health and efficiency.

It could be said that T.P. Sizova was "living chronicle" of the Faculty. Being on a pension, T.P. Sizova continued to work, generously sharing her knowledge and experience with all, who need it. Her course of life she passed interestingly and valuably.

This page is a brief synopsys of the obituary of T.P. Sizova by Yu.T. Dyakov and L.M. Liovkina Mycology & Phytopathology 33 (6): 441, 1999.

Lists. Publications. Taxa. Kirk & Ansell form of name: Sizova.