Rebecca Skloot

Rebecca Skloot is a highly accomplished science writer, known for her in-depth narrative style and ability to explore a wide range of topics. She has written for numerous publications, including The New York Times Magazine, O, The Oprah Magazine, and Discover. Her work has also been featured on various radio and television programs, such as NPR's Radiolab, PBS's Nova ScienceNOW, and CBS Sunday Morning.

Skloot's writing often focuses on the intersection of science and society, covering topics as diverse as goldfish surgery, tissue ownership rights, and food politics. She has a particular interest in exploring the ethical implications of scientific research and has written extensively about the story of Henrietta Lacks, a black woman whose cancer cells were taken without her consent and used to create the first immortal human cell line. This story formed the basis of Skloot's debut book, "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks," which became a New York Times best-seller and won numerous awards.

Before becoming a science writer, Skloot spent over a decade working as a veterinary technician in various settings, including animal shelters, research labs, and emergency rooms. This experience has given her a unique perspective on the role of animals in scientific research and has informed much of her writing on the subject. Skloot is also the founder of The Henrietta Lacks Foundation, which aims to provide financial assistance to individuals who have been affected by medical research. She currently lives in Oakland, California, where she is working on her latest book.