Mary Allen
Who is Roger Arliner Young?
Roger Arliner Young was an American scientist who made significant contributions to the field of biology, particularly in the area of marine biology. She is best known for her discovery of the stress response in aquatic animals and for her research on the effect of radiation on marine life. Young was also a trailblazer for women in science, as she overcame significant personal and societal challenges to become one of the few black women in the scientific community during her time.
Young’s early life and education
Born in 1889 in Virginia, Young grew up in poverty and faced discrimination due to her race and gender. Despite the challenges, she was determined to pursue her education and attended Howard University, where she studied biology under the guidance of her mentor, Ernest Everett Just. After completing her undergraduate degree, she went on to earn a master’s degree from the University of Chicago, becoming the first black woman to do so.
Young’s academic achievements
Young’s academic achievements were impressive, given the barriers she faced. She published several research papers on marine biology and was the first black woman to present at the prestigious American Association for the Advancement of Science conference. Her most significant contribution to science was her discovery of the stress response in aquatic animals, which helped to advance the understanding of how these creatures adapt to changing environmental conditions.
The discovery of stress response
Young’s discovery of the stress response in aquatic animals was groundbreaking. She found that when marine organisms were placed in stressful conditions such as changes in temperature, salinity, or pH levels, they displayed certain physiological responses such as increased heart rate and respiratory rate. These responses helped the animals to adapt and survive in their environments. Her research on the stress response paved the way for further studies in the field of environmental biology.
Young’s contribution to marine biology
Young’s research on marine biology extended beyond the stress response. She also studied the behavior of marine organisms in their natural habitats, and her work helped to shed light on the complexity of marine ecosystems. Her research on marine invertebrates, in particular, was groundbreaking, as it helped to dispel the notion that these creatures were simple and unchanging.
Young’s research on the effects of radiation
In addition to her work on marine biology, Young also conducted research on the effects of radiation on marine life. Her studies showed that radiation could have significant impacts on the development and reproduction of marine organisms, which has implications for the health of marine ecosystems. Her research on radiation contributed to the growing body of knowledge on the environmental impacts of nuclear testing.
Young’s personal struggles and challenges
Young faced numerous personal struggles and challenges throughout her life. She battled poverty, discrimination, and illness, and struggled with addiction. Despite these challenges, she remained committed to her work and continued to make significant contributions to the scientific community.
Young’s impact on the scientific community
Young’s impact on the scientific community was significant. She was a pioneer for women in science and helped to break down barriers for future generations of female scientists. Her research on the stress response and radiation has had lasting impacts on the field of environmental biology, and her contributions to marine biology have helped to advance our understanding of these complex ecosystems.
Young’s legacy and recognition
Young’s legacy has been recognized in various ways. In 1940, she was awarded the Julius Rosenwald Fellowship, which provided funding for her research. She was also the subject of a biography, “Black Women Scientists in the United States,” which highlighted her achievements and struggles. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Young’s life and work, as her contributions to science have become more widely recognized.
Young’s influence on future generations
Young’s influence on future generations of scientists is significant. Her life story serves as an inspiration to young people who face barriers in pursuing their dreams, and her contributions to science have helped to pave the way for further research in the field of environmental biology. Her legacy continues to inspire scientists, particularly women and people of color, to pursue careers in science and make meaningful contributions to their fields.
Young’s contributions to women in science
Young’s contributions to women in science cannot be overstated. She was one of the first black women to earn a master’s degree in biology and was a trailblazer for women in the scientific community. Her achievements helped to break down barriers for future generations of female scientists and inspired other women to pursue careers in science.
Conclusion: Young’s lasting significance
Roger Arliner Young’s life and work have had a lasting significance on the scientific community. Her contributions to marine biology, her discovery of the stress response, and her research on radiation have helped to advance our understanding of the natural world. Her personal struggles and challenges have made her an inspiration to future generations of scientists, particularly women and people of color. Young’s legacy will continue to inspire scientific research and innovation for years to come.