The Papers of Professor Bennett J. Cohen, 1942-1990
Title
The Papers of Professor Bennett J. Cohen, 1942-1990
Rights
University of Michigan
Type
Biographical and Research papers
Creator
The Bentley Historical Library at the University of Michigan
Date
1942-1990
Format
JPG
Description
Select papers from the "Biographical Materials" and "General Animal Research" folders of Professor Bennett J. Cohen. Cohen was a pioneer in the field of animal testing research. Trained as a veterinarian, he founded the ULAM (Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine) at the University of Michigan and authored the "Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals." His later-in-life animal research focused on aging with studies on improving wound healing rates of older mice.
Publisher
The Bentley Historical Library at the University of Michigan
Contributor
The Bentley Historical Library at the University of Michigan
A short student-made zine printed on newsprint with monochrome photographs, advertisements, and opinion articles. Bennett J. Cohen, director of ULAM at U-M wrote an article in it titled “A Path to New Knowledge,” which argues that animal experimentation is essential to scientific and medical advancement. He emphasized existing regulatory standards that he claimed ensured humane conduct. The publication gives contrasting viewpoints on animal testing research, both for and against.
The article reports on the formation of the Michigan Society for Medical Research at the University of Michigan, a group advocating for the continued use of animals in scientific research amid growing opposition from animal-welfare organizations and pending federal legislation. It highlights statements from Dr. Bennett Cohen and others arguing that animal research is essential, warning that proposed regulations would increase costs and hinder scientific progress.
Newsletter from the University of Michigan’s News for Animal Users (Dated September 1990) memorializing Professor Bennett J. Cohen (1925–1990). The text highlights Cohen’s pioneering role in laboratory animal science, his founding and 23-year leadership of the Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine (ULAM), and his establishment of the Core Facility for Aging Rodents (CFAR). The piece also describes his major contributions to national standards, including chairing the committee that produced the first Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and further notes his many awards, publications, and service on boards. It concludes with reflections on his mentorship, global influence, and lasting impact on the University of Michigan’s research community.
