Born: 1924 (Chicago, Illinois)
Died: 2017
Biography:
Jewel Plummer Cobb (January 17, 1924 – January 1, 2017) was an American biologist, cancer researcher, professor, dean, and academic administrator. She made significant contributions to the field of cancer research, particularly in studying the cure for melanoma. Beyond her scientific achievements, Cobb was a passionate advocate for increasing the representation of women and students of color in universities. Throughout her career, she actively created programs to support underrepresented students interested in pursuing graduate school.
Jewel Isadora Plummer was born on January 17, 1924, in Chicago, Illinois. She was the only child of Frank V. Plummer and Carriebel Cole Plummer. Her mother, Carriebel, was a physical education and dance teacher who graduated from college with a BA in interpretive dancing. Remarkably, both mother and daughter enrolled in college at the same time, resulting in both of them earning their degrees in the same year. Jewel’s father, Frank, was a pioneering figure in his own right, being the first Black person to graduate with a Doctor of Medicine from Cornell University. He became a physician specializing in dermatology. Jewell’s paternal grandfather was also an accomplished individual, having been a freed slave who graduated from Howard University in 1898. He made a living as a pharmacist.
Growing up in an economically privileged environment, Cobb had the opportunity for intellectual exploration from an early age. She had access to her father’s scientific library and attended several multiracial institutions, which shaped her curiosity and love for learning. Although she initially planned to become a physical education teacher, her interest in science solidified during her sophomore year of high school while looking through a microscope in biology class. Encouraged by her biology teacher, Cobb delved deeper into the subject, even finding fascination in books like Paul DeKruif’s The Microbe Hunters, which explored the world of microorganisms.
Cobb began her higher education journey at the University of Michigan in 1942. However, the segregated housing for African-American students at Michigan left her dissatisfied, leading her to transfer to Talladega College in Alabama. Despite the setback of not being able to transfer her credits, she persevered and completed her coursework in three years instead of the standard four. In 1944, she graduated from Talladega College with a BA in biology, becoming a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.
Initially, Cobb faced discrimination when seeking a fellowship for graduate study in biology at New York University. However, she was ultimately granted the fellowship after showcasing her determination and talent during an interview. In 1947, she earned her MS from New York University, focusing on cell physiology. Three years later, in 1950, she obtained her PhD with a dissertation titled Mechanisms of Pigment Formation. This groundbreaking research examined melanin pigment granule formation in vitro, with a specific focus on the enzyme tyrosinase.
Following her academic accomplishments, Cobb was appointed an independent investigator at the Woods Hole Marine Biological Laboratory in 1949. She continued to make strides in her field, establishing herself as a respected researcher and educator. Her groundbreaking work and dedication to scientific advancement were recognized when the town near the Marine Biological Laboratory renamed a road Jewel Cobb Road in her honor.
Beyond her scientific contributions, Jewel Plummer Cobb played a significant role as an advocate for equity and representation in academia. Recognizing the barriers faced by underrepresented groups, particularly women and students of color, she worked tirelessly to create programs and initiatives to support their access to higher education. Her contributions in this area are invaluable, and her dedication to diversity and inclusion continues to inspire generations of students.
Jewel Plummer Cobb’s legacy as a pioneering biologist, cancer researcher, and advocate for diversity and inclusion in academia is a testament to her incredible intellect, determination, and resilience. Her work has had a lasting impact on cancer research and the education of underrepresented students, cementing her status as a trailblazer in both science and women’s history.