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Katherine Van Winkle Palmer (1895 - September 12, 1982) was a tertiary paleontologist, a scientist who studies fossils from the Cenozoic era, and geologist. Palmer was widely recognized for her field/doctoral study on veneracean lamellibranchs (a class of bivalve mollusks which include clams, scallops and oysters). Palmer was a director of the Paleontological Research Institution in New York. At this position, Palmer oversaw the publication of numerous Bulletins of American Paleontology as well as several issues of Palaeontographica Americana.

Early Life

Palmer was born to Jacob Van Winkle and Edith Van Winkle in Oakville, Washington, where she spent her youth. In 1918, Palmer received her bachelor of science degree at the University of Washington. Palmer wrote her thesis at the University of Washington on the Oligocene fossils found in the Chehalis Valley in Washington, and named it "Fauna from the Eocene of Washington". While attending the University of Washington, Palmer worked as the laboratory assistant to Charles E Weaver, who focused his study on Tertiary fauna. After graduation, Palmer continued her education at Cornell where she received her Ph.D in 1925. During her studies there, Palmer met and married her husband, Ephraim L. Palmer, who was a Professor of Rural Education and Nature Study. At Cornell, Palmer worked closely with Professor A. D. Harris, helping him create the Paleontological Research Institution.

Career

Palmer replaced Harris as director of the Paleontological Research Institution in 1952, which she held until 1978. While at this position, Palmer oversaw the publication of 150 Bulletins of American Paleontology as well as 20 issues of Palaeontographica Americana. Another position held by Palmer during her career was president of the American Malacological Society, an organization dedicated to the research and preservation of mollusks.