Jane Maienschein 2024 Sarton Medalist

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HSS is pleased to announce the 2024 Sarton Medalist, Jane Maienschein! 

Jane Maienschein is a distinguished scholar at Arizona State University (ASU), and has earned numerous university accolades, including University Professor, Regents’ Professor, President’s Professor, Parents Association Professor, and Director of the Center for Biology and Society. At the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole, she holds the rare title of Fellow.

For over forty years, Jane has been a leading figure in the history and philosophy of science. Her prolific research includes five books, 14 edited volumes, over 95 research articles, and 41 editorials and op-eds, covering topics from embryology, genetics, and evolution to regenerative medicine and public policy. Her work exemplifies rigorous historical investigations that illuminate current science and public health issues.

Jane's contributions to the history and philosophy of biology are foundational. Her first monograph, Transforming Traditions in American Biology, 1880-1915 (1991), analyzed the shift in American biology from descriptive to experimental methodologies. Her work has significantly influenced the field, bringing new scholars into the history of biology. She has also integrated philosophy into the history of biology, emphasizing that historical and sociological contexts are crucial in understanding scientific experiments.

Jane's early scholarship established enduring approaches to experimental and American biology histories. She emphasized the importance of experimental methods in biology and explored how historical context influences scientific acceptance. Her practice of "practical history," where she recreated historical experiments, has inspired many historians and philosophers of science.

Her extensive work includes critical studies of cell and developmental biology, bridging the gap between historical and contemporary scientific issues. Jane's second major book, Whose View of Life? (2003), examined the historical and policy aspects of embryology, providing insights into contemporary debates on reproduction and stem cell research. Her public engagement and clear communication have made complex scientific issues accessible to broader audiences.

Jane's dedication to building diverse and inclusive scholarly communities is evident in her teaching, mentorship, and administrative efforts. She has mentored numerous students and early-career scholars, many of whom have achieved significant positions in interdisciplinary institutions. Jane co-founded the Embryo Project Encyclopedia and the MBL History Project, providing valuable resources for public and academic audiences.

For 35 years, she has co-directed the History of Biology summer seminar at MBL, fostering collaboration among historians, philosophers, and scientists. Her latest initiative (co-founded and run with Kate MacCord), the McDonnell Initiative at MBL, promotes interdisciplinary research on regeneration, highlighting the importance of collaboration across disciplines.

Jane's extensive service to disciplinary societies, including her term as President of HSS and the Board of Directors of AAAS, showcases her commitment to advancing the field. Her leadership and organizational skills have created inclusive spaces for scholarly work, making her a highly deserving recipient of the Sarton Medal.