Ernest Everett Just was born on August 14, 1883, in Charleston, South Carolina. He was the eldest child in his family, with two siblings. His father and grandfather worked as dock builders, instilling in him a strong work ethic and determination from a young age.
Just attended the historically black university, Howard University, where he studied biology and excelled in his academics. He later transferred to Dartmouth College and graduated magna cum laude in 1907. He went on to pursue further studies at the University of Chicago, where he received his Ph.D. in zoology in 1916.
Ernest Everett Just is best known for his pioneering work in biology, particularly his research on the role of the cell surface in the development of organisms. He was a brilliant scientist who made significant contributions to our understanding of cellular biology.
In 1915, Just began his career as a faculty member at Howard University, where he taught and conducted research for many years. He later served as the head of the biology department at Howard University, becoming one of the most respected African-American biologists of his time.
Just's groundbreaking research earned him many accolades, including a nomination for a Pulitzer Prize for his autobiography, Black Apollo of Science: The Life of Ernest Everett Just, in 1984. He was also inspired by the work of fellow scientist Alfred Wegener and dedicated his life to advancing the field of biology.
Despite his many achievements, Ernest Everett Just faced numerous challenges in his career. In 1940, while conducting research in France, he was captured and briefly imprisoned in a prisoner-of-war camp by the Nazis. However, he was eventually rescued by the U.S. State Department and continued his research and teaching.
Throughout his life, Just faced discrimination and prejudice due to his race, but he never let it deter him from pursuing his passion for science. He was a trailblazer in the field of biology and paved the way for future generations of African-American scientists.
Ernest Everett Just's legacy lives on through his groundbreaking research and enduring contributions to the field of biology. He was a role model for aspiring scientists and an inspiration to all who knew him.
His work continues to influence the study of cellular biology and has paved the way for advancements in our understanding of the natural world. Just's dedication to his research and his resilience in the face of adversity serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in pursuit of one's goals.
Ernest Everett Just was a pioneering African-American biologist whose contributions to the field of biology continue to resonate to this day. Through his groundbreaking research and dedication to his craft, he made significant strides in our understanding of cellular biology and left an indelible mark on the scientific community.