Throughout her life, Academician Zarifa Aliyeva exemplified intellectual excellence and profound spirituality, leaving an indelible mark on the medical field in our nation through her extensive scientific endeavors. Her groundbreaking research in ophthalmology, particularly her great works, stands as a testament to her dedication and expertise. Recognized for their significant contributions, her studies have garnered acclaim and earned prestigious accolades.
New and effective treatment methods, along with comprehensive preventive measures proposed in these studies, have swiftly gained widespread application. Notably, the first research center of ophthalmology in Azerbaijan was established through the visionary initiative of Academician Zarifa Aliyeva.
Throughout her scientific and pedagogical endeavors, Zarifa Aliyeva remained steadfastly committed to medical ethics. She tirelessly nurtured a cadre of highly skilled professionals in the republic, shaping a formidable cohort of young scientists and ophthalmologists.
Having graduated from the Azerbaijan State Medical Institute named after N. Narimanov in 1947, Zarifa Aliyeva embarked on a prolific career. She served as a researcher at the Azerbaijan Scientific-Research Institute of Ophthalmology, and from 1969 onwards, held positions such as associate professor of the department of eye diseases, professor, head of the laboratory of occupational pathology of the visual organs, and head of the department of ophthalmology (1982-1985) at the A.Aliyev Azerbaijan Physicians Improvement Institute.
Zarifa Aliyeva's contributions to the advancement of ophthalmology in Azerbaijan are unparalleled. Among her pioneering endeavors was the study, prevention, and treatment of trachoma—a prevalent issue in Azerbaijan—as well as eye diseases associated with various professions, particularly in the chemical and electronic industries. Her extensive research portfolio includes seminal works on contemporary ophthalmological issues, notably "Therapeutic Ophthalmology" and "Iridodiagnostics." She authored 12 monographs, textbooks, and teaching materials, along with approximately 150 scientific publications, 1 invention, and 12 efficiency proposals. Zarifa Aliyeva dedicated considerable efforts to the training of highly qualified healthcare professionals.
Academician Zarifa Aliyeva held esteemed positions including membership in the Presidium of the All-Union Society of Ophthalmologists, the Soviet Peace Protection Committee, the Board of Directors of the Azerbaijan Ophthalmology Society, and the editorial board of the journal "Vestnik Ophthalmology" (Moscow).
In recognition of her outstanding scientific achievements, she was honored with the M.I. Averbakh Award by the Academy of Medical Sciences of the USSR in 1981.
Following her passing on April 15, 1985, in Moscow, Zarifa Aliyeva's remains were repatriated to Baku from Moscow's Novo-Devichye cemetery in 1994. She was laid to rest in the Alley of Honor, beside her father's grave, symbolizing her enduring legacy and profound impact on Azerbaijani society.
