About
Ernest E. Just was a trailblazing American biologist notably known for his work in experimental embryology. From a young age, Ernest was introduced to the importance of community leadership and education by his mother. In 1907, Ernest graduated magna cum laude from Dartmouth College majoring in biology and minoring in history. He was also inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Despite his many accomplishments he was not selected to deliver the commencement speech as faculty opposed the idea of the only Black student addressing parents, alumni, and benefactors. After receiving his degree, Just began teaching at Howard University. There in 1911, he founded the first Greek-lettered fraternity founded on the campus of a HBCU, Omega Psi Phi. For many summers after, Just worked for the Marine Biological Laboratory studying marine embryology. His work at the MBL then inspired him to pursue his doctorate in zoology from the University of Chicago and in 1916 he earned his degree. By then had become an internationally respected scientist known for his meticulous experimental designs. Throughout his career, Just faced racism and discrimination which ultimately led to his decision to move to Europe to conduct research in order to support his family. Ernest was a pioneer in his career and left behind a tremendous legacy, paving the way for black and other historically excluded scientists.
E.E. Just Biomedical Society at the University of Pennsylvania was created to carry on the legacy of Just. Our mission is to foster an environment that supports the well-being and professional development of Black and historically excluded biomedical graduate students in the Perelman School of Medicine. We host a series of workshops, seminars and programs that serve the academic, social and professional needs of Black and other undergrad, grad, and postdoc Penn communities. We are also committed to supporting the local West Philadelphia community and empowering the next generation of Black and historically excluded scientists through targeted outreach initiatives.
Upcoming Events
Recent Events
Register by clicking the ​image!
E.E. Just Calendar
Executive Board
Bruktawit Goshu
Outreach Co-Chair
Immunology PhD Student
Diana Cruz
Outreach Co-chair
Neuroscience PhD
Alexandria Adigun
Outreach Co-chair
CAMB-DSRB MD-PHD
Ariana Campbell
Social Co-Chair
CAMB PhD Student
Carl Bannerman
Social Co-Chair
CAMB PhD Student
Executive Board
Francine Baker
Seminars/Professional Development
Immunology PhD Candidate
Rachel Richards
Communications Co-Chair
CAMB PhD Student
Science Day
On April 16th, 2024 EE Just facilitated Science Day at Fanny Jackson Coppin School where we introduced 2nd graders to the wonders of microscopy and explored samples under the microscope!
Resources
Grad students:
Fellowships
Database for PhD funding opportunities
NSF GFRP
A 5-year fellowship with 3-years of funding for high achieving scientists and engineers, early in their careers
Go to NSF GFRP
Common BGS Resources
Quick links to common BGS and Penn-wide resources
Postdocs:
Fellowships
Database for cancer and neuroscience research funding
ROMS Fellowship
A 2-year fully funded program for postdocs looking to pursue research operations and administration
Archives
E.E. Just 2020-21
Want to see what E.E. Just has done in the past?
Check out our Archives!
E.E. Just 2022-23
E.E. Just 2021-22
E.E. Just 2019-20
E.E. Just 2018-19
Connect With Us
We hope to see you at our future events and volunteer opportunities! Don't hesitate to contact us via any social media platform. If you'd like to get more involved please email us!
