1953-2025

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of R. Scott Hawley, Ph.D., a beloved Investigator at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. Scott passed away on January 31, 2025. Scott was a pioneering scientist in the field of meiosis and a cherished mentor, colleague, and friend to many. His contributions to genetics, his unwavering passion for discovery, and his commitment to training the next generation of scientists leave an enduring impact on the Stowers Institute and the scientific community at large.

Scott dedicated his 24-year career at Stowers (2001–2025) to unraveling the mysteries of chromosome behavior during meiosis. His groundbreaking discoveries about molecular mechanisms of chromosome pairing, genetic controls of chromosome segregation, and evolutionary conservation of meiotic processes reshaped modern understanding of genetic inheritance and reproductive biology. Colleagues often described his 2003 study on crossover interference as foundational for subsequent research in gamete formation.

At the Stowers Institute, Scott was a cornerstone of our scientific community. He joined the Institute in 2001, shortly after its founding. His collaborative nature and unwavering support for his colleagues made him a treasured member of our institution. Whether sharing a new discovery, offering guidance, or simply brightening a conversation with his humor, Scott’s presence was felt in every corner of the Stowers community.

Beyond his research, Scott was a mentor and educator who inspired countless students and colleagues. Those who knew him best will remember his boundless curiosity, infectious enthusiasm, and generous spirit. He was deeply passionate about training early-career scientists and was instrumental in founding the Graduate School of the Stowers Institute for Medical Research in 2012, where he served as its first Dean. He had an exceptional ability to make complex concepts accessible and exciting, fostering a deep appreciation for genetics in those he taught. His legacy is carried forward by the students he trained, who now apply his lessons in research institutions around the world.

His scientific achievements earned him widespread recognition, including election to the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and notable honors through prestigious awards, including the American Cancer Society’s Excellence in Research Award, the GW Beadle Medal for Service to the Genetics Community, and the Elizabeth W. Jones Award for Excellence in Teaching from the Genetics Society of America, which also elected him president in 2010. Scott was also appointed as a Research Professor with the American Cancer Society taught undergraduates, graduate students, and medical school students at the University of Kansas and University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Scott’s work will continue to inspire future generations, and his kindness and wisdom will be deeply missed. His legacy will forever remain a part of the Stowers Institute and the broader scientific world.

The Stowers Institute and Graduate School of the Stowers Institute extend our heartfelt condolences to Scott’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.