Professor Ernesto Morais, uma vida de liderança.

Abstract

Backgroud Ernesto Morais (1905-1986) was a Physician and Professor at the Medical School of the University of Porto (FMUP). He displayed an unusual dynamism, an innovative character and a leadership spirit that he put at the service of university education and institutions connected to the health area. This dissertation intends to pay tribute to the life and work of the Professor, as well as to highlight, today, the marks of his contribution. Methods The bibliographic research was based on the analysis of the collection made available by Professor Ernesto Morais Foundation, the Archive of Medicine History Museum at FMUP and the Main Catalog of the Library of FMUP. The information was complemented with interviews with different personalities linked to his career. Results He graduated in Medicine (1928) and, in ten years, he became Professor of General Pathology (1939). He was the youngest President of the Northern Regional Section of the Ordem dos Médicos (1947). Enthusiastic about the social problems of Hemotherapy, he fought for the creation of a National Blood Institute. Discussion He was recognized by his colleagues for his extraordinary management skills and exceptional diplomacy. In the different positions he held, he dedicated himself to promote development, contributing, with his determination and ability, for the progress of Portuguese Medicine. Conclusions Ernesto Borges Teixeira de Morais belonged to a breed of Professors that constituted essential milestones in the History of FMUP. His intellectuality, discipline and leadership spirit are an example for those who have the privilege of crossing his history.