Robert A. Lue

Professor Robert A. Lue (1964-2020) was a transformative figure in science education who served as Professor of Molecular and Cellular Biology at Harvard University and the Richard L. Menschel Faculty Director of the Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning. Born in Jamaica to Chinese and Romanian parents, he earned his PhD in cellular biology from Harvard in 1995 and joined the faculty in 1999. His remarkable career included founding HarvardX, serving as UNESCO Chair on Life Sciences and Social Innovation, and directing LabXchange. A gifted educator and innovator, he revolutionized science visualization through award-winning animations like "The Inner Life of the Cell" (2006) and transformed Harvard's life sciences curriculum. As founding faculty director of the Harvard Ed Portal and dean of Harvard Summer School, he championed accessible education for all. Beyond his scientific work, Lue was an accomplished artist who integrated his passion for visual arts into science education. His legacy includes pioneering online learning platforms, co-authoring influential biology textbooks, and mentoring countless students and faculty. Known for his infectious optimism and warm personality, he remained dedicated to improving global science education until his passing from cancer in November 2020 at age 56