The Life of Roger Arliner Young

Roger Arliner Young was an African-American scientist who made significant contributions to the field of marine biology. She was born on September 13, 1899, in Clifton Forge, Virginia, and grew up in a poverty-stricken family. Despite the challenges she faced, Young was determined to pursue her passion for science.

At the age of 16, Young enrolled at Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she studied biology. She later went on to earn a master’s degree in zoology from the University of Chicago and became the first African-American woman to receive a PhD in zoology from the University of Pennsylvania in 1940.

Early Achievements in Academia

Young’s early achievements in academia were remarkable. During her undergraduate years at Howard University, she was a laboratory assistant to Ernest Everett Just, a renowned African-American biologist. Just recognized Young’s potential and encouraged her to pursue a career in science.

After completing her master’s degree at the University of Chicago, Young was awarded a prestigious fellowship from the Rosenwald Fund. This allowed her to continue her studies at the University of Pennsylvania, where she conducted research on the effects of radiation on sea urchin eggs.

Struggles and Breakthroughs in Her Career

Despite her early successes, Young faced many struggles in her career. She struggled with poverty, discrimination, and poor health throughout her life. She also battled with addiction and mental health issues, which affected her work and personal life.

Nevertheless, Young continued to make breakthroughs in her field. She was known for her work on the physiology of marine animals and the effects of environmental factors on their development. Her research on the effects of radiation on sea urchin eggs was groundbreaking and helped pave the way for future studies on the effects of radiation on living organisms.

Contributions to Marine Biology

Young’s contributions to the field of marine biology were significant. She conducted research on a wide range of marine animals, including sea urchins, starfish, and clams. Her work on the physiology of these animals helped shed light on how they adapt to their environment and how environmental factors affect their development.

Young also made important contributions to the study of marine ecology. She was interested in the interactions between marine organisms and their environment, and her research helped advance our understanding of the complex relationships between different species in marine ecosystems.

Discoveries and Publications

Young made many discoveries throughout her career. Her research on the effects of radiation on sea urchin eggs was a significant breakthrough, as it helped pave the way for future studies on the effects of radiation on living organisms.

Young also published several papers on a variety of topics in marine biology, including the physiology of marine animals, the effects of environmental factors on their development, and the interactions between different species in marine ecosystems. Her work was widely respected and cited by other scientists in the field.

Legacy in the Field of Science

Young’s legacy in the field of science is significant. She was one of the first African-American women to earn a PhD in zoology and made important contributions to the study of marine biology. Her work helped advance our understanding of how marine animals adapt to their environment and how environmental factors affect their development.

Young’s legacy also serves as an inspiration to future generations of scientists, particularly women of color who continue to face discrimination and barriers to entry in the field of science.

Challenges Faced as a Woman of Color

Young faced many challenges as a woman of color in the field of science. She struggled with poverty, discrimination, and poor health throughout her life. She also faced barriers to entry in the field of science and was often overlooked for opportunities and positions that were available to her white male counterparts.

Despite these challenges, Young persevered and made significant contributions to the field of science. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in science and the need to address the barriers faced by women of color in the field.

Recognition and Awards Received

Young received several awards and honors throughout her career. In 1924, she was awarded a prestigious fellowship from the Rosenwald Fund, which allowed her to continue her studies at the University of Pennsylvania. She also received a scholarship from the National Association of Colored Women in 1926.

In 1930, Young was awarded a grant from the Research Corporation, which allowed her to conduct research on the physiology of marine animals. She was also a member of several scientific organizations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Society of Zoologists.

Influence on Future Generations

Young’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists, particularly women of color. Her perseverance in the face of adversity and her groundbreaking work in the field of marine biology serve as an inspiration to all those who aspire to pursue a career in science.

Young’s legacy also serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in science, and the need to address the barriers faced by women of color in the field.

Remembering Roger Arliner Young

Roger Arliner Young passed away on November 9, 1964, at the age of 65. Despite the challenges she faced throughout her life, Young made significant contributions to the field of science and her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

We must remember and celebrate the life and work of Roger Arliner Young, and continue to work towards a more inclusive and diverse field of science. Her perseverance in the face of adversity is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of pursuing one’s passions.