Robin Scheffler

Robin Wolfe Scheffler is an Associate Professor in the Science, Technology, and Society Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).13 He is a historian of modern biological and biomedical sciences, focusing on their intersections with developments in American history.1

Research and Expertise

Scheffler's work primarily revolves around:

1. History of cancer virus research: He has studied the 20th-century progression of cancer virus research from legislature to laboratory.1
2. Biotechnology industry: Scheffler is currently examining the evolution and growth of the biotech industry, particularly in the Boston area.2
3. Chemical biography of dioxins: This is another area of his research interest.1

His overarching goal is to understand the mutual influence between science and society.1

Academic Background

Scheffler's educational background includes:

• Doctorate in the history of science and medicine from Yale University
• M.Phil in the History and Philosophy of Science from the University of Cambridge
• Undergraduate degrees in history and chemistry from the University of Chicago1

Career Highlights

• Recently earned tenure at MIT for his research and teaching2
• Published his first book, "A Contagious Cause," in 2019, examining postwar fears of a transmittable "cancer virus"2
• Edited a special issue of Studies in the History and Philosophy of the Biological and Biomedical Sciences focused on cancer virus history1
• Has published in journals such as Endeavour and the Journal of the History of Biology1

Current Work

Scheffler is currently studying the biotech boom in the Boston area, focusing on:

• The role of academia in providing talent for the biotech industry
• Economic forces and urban planning issues affecting industrial clusters
• The evolution of biomedical research in Kendall Square and greater Boston2

His unique position of living and working in the area he studies provides him with valuable insights and observations for his research.2