Ray David Owen Oral History Interview

Interviewed by Rachel Prud’homme

Abstract

Interview with Ray Owen, Professor of Biology at Caltech, conducted by Rachel Prud’homme in 1983. The interview covers Owen’s early life growing up in Wisconsin, where he attended the University of Wisconsin, studying cattle genetics with C. Stormont; his early research on chimerism in twin calves and on immunological tolerance. In 1946 he joins the biology division faculty at Caltech in genetics as a Gosney Fellow. Recollections of genetics at Caltech following World War II: concurrent arrivals include G. W. Beadle, N. Horowitz, H. Mitchell, and L. DuBridge. Recalls T. H. Morgan’s reputation and his colleagues A. H. Sturtevant and S. Emerson. Other members of the biology division at this time include C. Bridges, H. J. Muller, H. Borsook, A. Haagen-Smit, C. Wiersma, A. van Harrevelt, and F. Went. Recollections of L. Pauling. His book, General Genetics, with A. Srb published in 1952. His work with D. Lindsley on bone marrow transplantation. At Caltech, involvement with freshman admissions. In 1961 becomes biology division chair. Discusses teaching and further work in student affairs, including admission and recruitment of women, the Committee on the Freshman Year, and pass/fail grading. Appointment in 1975 to dean of students and vice-president for student affairs. Involvement with National Cancer Program (1972-1975) and continuing research on immunological tolerance. Concludes with observations on genetic engineering and safety of genetics research.

Access the full archival record

Access a PDF version of the transcript [0.8 MB]

Ray David Owen Oral History Interview, interviewed by Rachel Prud’homme, Caltech Archives Oral History Project, October 20, 1983, November 14, 1983, http://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechOH:OH_Owen_R.