Baker, Burton L. (Burton Lowell), 1912-1978.

Professor of anatomy in the University of Michigan Medical School.

From the description of Burton L. Baker papers, 1950-1978. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 85778353

From the description of Burton L. Baker papers, 1950-1978. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 34419842

Burton Lowell Baker was born April 2, 1912 in Fife Lake, Michigan. He received his initial college education at Kalamazoo College (A.B., 1933). Afterward he specialized in anatomical studies at Kansas State College (M.S., 1935) and Columbia University (Ph.D., 1941).

Baker began his teaching career at Columbia, but taught there only briefly. Most of his teaching was done at the University of Michigan. He came to Ann Arbor as an instructor of anatomy in 1941. In 1945 he was named an assistant professor, in 1947 an associate professor, and in 1952 he became a full professor.

Baker was constantly involved in research. Initially he was interested in cytology and the function of the parathyroid and adrenal glands, as well as the placenta. Later he investigated the local action of adrenocortical steroids and hormonal regulation of the gastrointestinal tract. His last projects concentrated upon the functional cytology of the pituitary gland and its regulation by the brain. His research led to the publication of over 110 papers.

Baker served on a number of committees. Within the university he sat on various committees specializing in medical areas as well as committees dealing with broader subjects such as the Rackham School of Graduate Studies executive board; Advisory Committee on Appointments, Promotions and Titles in the Medical School; and the Medical School Executive Committee. Outside the university Baker served on important committees for both the American Cancer Society and the National Institute of Health.

Baker was active in the university and academic communities when he died on October 14, 1978.

From the guide to the Burton L. Baker Papers, 1950-1978, (Bentley Historical Library University of Michigan)