Robert M. Dowben, MD, 92, died November 11. An adjunct professor emeritus of molecular pharmacology, physiology, and biotechnology, he led a distinguished career as a physician, scientist, and academician.
Dr. Dowben earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Haverford College, and an MD from the University of Chicago. He held faculty appointments at the University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern University, a joint professorship between MIT and Harvard Medical School, the University of Bergen Norway, and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas during his career.
He authored more than 150 scientific publications and four books on cell and muscle physiology. Dr. Dowben received many accolades for his contributions to medicine and science, including the University of Chicago Alumni Award for Exceptional Service and the National Foundation for Neuromuscular Disease Award. He was named on eight patents and was a prolific writer on topics beyond science and medicine well into his 80s. Following his retirement from Brown, he continued to mentor many graduate students, delighting in their successes and following their careers.
He is survived by his wife, Carla, and their children and grandchildren. Gifts in his memory may be made to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank or Crossroads.
