Dorothy M. Skinner

Dorothy May Skinner (May 22, 1930 - February 12, 2005) was an carcinologist, and is known for her contributions in crustacean biology. She was a research scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Early life and education Skinner was born in Newton, Massachusetts in 1950 and went on the graduate from Watertown Highschool. Following graduation, she attended Tufts University where she earned her B.A. in biology and chemistry in 1952. In her junior year, she was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. She was also appointed as the Assistant Dean of Admissions at Tufts and was given the responsibility for admitting two classes to the School of Arts and Sciences. In 1975, Skinner made significant points in understanding a crucial aspect of crustacean biology how their muscles break down before they molt, or shed their shells. Her collaboration with Don Mykles started in 1979, and their research highlighted the intricate mechanisms behind muscle atrophy, highlighting the role of specific enzymes and proteins in this physiological transformation. Her review of crustacean regeneration has been recognized as a key summary of the research in the field.

Death Skinner died on February 12, 2005, from complications of Parkinson's disease. In 1993 Skinner received the Award for Excellence in Research from The Crustacean Society. In 1996 Skinner was elected to the inaugural class of fellows for the Association for Women in Science.

Personal life On July 24, 1965, she married John Cook, a mammalian physiologist. Together, they had no children.