Becoming a Physiologist (1895–1899)

Abstract

Returning to Copenhagen in September 1895, August finally began his studies for a magister conference in zoology. Now William Sorensen, far ahead of his colleagues in understanding the importance of physiology for zoology, recommended that Krogh take a physiology course in addition to his regular studies. Physiology was not taught within the Naturhistorisk Fakultet (the Mathematics—Natural Science Department), but in the Medical School, where Christian Bohr was professor of physiology. The first lecture Krogh attended became decisive for his future. Bohr lectured on methods for determining the quantity of blood and blood gasses in the body. The quantitative treatment of the subject and the physical principles involved appealed enormously to the young Krogh.

“It is my intention to qualify myself for acceptance in Professor Bohr’s physiological laboratory after Christmas. This I very much desire, partly because physiology, in my opinion, is the most interesting field and partly because Professor Bohr is an especially capable and intelligent man.”