Born in Lovetch. Began her studies in Grenoble and graduated in Biology at the Sofia University (1916). Defended a doctorate in Zoology at the Institute for Higher Agricultural Studies in the Sorbonne (1925). There Lechtova worked as an Assistant Professor (1925-1932), discovered a new species parasitic fungus, received awards from the Sorbonne and the French Academy, became a fellow of the French Ministry of Agriculture. In 1928-1932 she discussed the possibility to become an Associate Professor of Botany at the Sofia University, but met rude refusal of the academic authorities. Prof. Stefan Petkov, a prominent botanist, advised her not to engage more in research and to focus over the role of housewife and mother. If she would like to work, he said to Lechtova, have to remain in Paris. Returned to Bulgaria in 1932, Lechtova became a housewife.
