In Memoriam: Janet Davison Rowley, 1925-2013

Janet D. Rowley, the Blum-Riese Distinguished Service Professor of Medicine, Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology and Human Genetics at the University of Chicago, died on December 17 at her home. Dr. Rowley, who had been suffering from ovarian cancer, was 88 years old.

Dr. Rowley’s research focused on analyzing the genetic consequences of the recurring chromosome abnormalities seen in human leukemia cells. She was awarded the National Medal of Science and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Earlier this year she shared the $500,000 Albany Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research.

Professor Rowley held two bachelor’s degrees and a medical degree, all from the University of Chicago.