The history of the first prominent Black American scientist: Dr. Ernest Everett Just
Samantha Lewis, Professor
Molecular and Cell Biology
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2023 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2024.
The goal of the project is to create a digital repository documenting the life and works of cell biologist Dr. Ernest Everett Just (1883-1941). As the first prominent Black scientist in the United States, Just broke barriers not only via the uncommon elegance of his experimental designs but in integrating historically white scientific spaces such as universities, research field stations and scientific conferences. The repository will support research for an ongoing biographical book project that examines Justs’ scientific legacy and places it within the broader context of the hiring of the first Black faculty at elite universities in the U.S. We have been working on assembling documents from archives at the University of Chicago and the Marine Biological Laboratory at Wood’s Hole for the past 2 years.
Role: Students involved in the project will
1. Research archival materials on the history of cell biology 1900-1940;
2. Have the opportunity to engage with cell biologists and historians; and
3. Craft histories of Black scientists in the early twentieth century.
Learning outcomes will include the development of science communication skills, a basic introduction to cell biology, and increased knowledge about the history of science.
Qualifications: We are looking for an organized, dependable, highly motivated, and detail-oriented student, who can operate independently but seek guidance when necessary. Students should be interested in one or more of the following: racial justice and American academia, cell biology, and the history of science.
Hours: 3-5 hrs
Related website: http://www.eejust.org
Related website: http://www.thelewislab.org