Letter:
Kerri Anne Mowen (1974 - 2016)

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It is with much sorrow that we learned Dr. Kerri Anne Mowen passed away Sunday, February 14, 2016 at her home. Her death was unexpected as she was only 41 years old.

Kerri was born in Burlington, Iowa, on May 19, 1974, and received bachelor and doctorate degrees in Biology from Southern Illinois University and the University of California, San Diego in 1996 and 2000, respectively. After performing research in molecular and cellular immunology at Harvard University as a Damon Runyon postdoctoral fellow, Kerri returned to San Diego to join our faculty in 2005 as a member of the Departments of Immunology and Chemical Physiology. 

At TSRI, Kerri built a highly innovative research program at the interface of protein biochemistry, immune cell biology and inflammation, with a particular interest in the role of post-translational modifications, such as arginine methylation and cirtullination, in immunology and immune system disorders. Most recently, her research formed the basis for the launch of Padlock Therapeutics, a biotechnology company focused on developing drugs that target PAD enzymes (or protein arginine deiminases) to treat autoimmune disorders. Kerri had decided to join this exciting venture as not only a co-founding scientist, but also Director of Biology.

During her time at TSRI, Kerri was recognized for her scientific achievements by a Donald and Delia Baxter Foundation Young Career Scientist award and an Arthritis Foundation Hulda Irene Duggan Arthritis award.

However, as all of us who were fortunate enough to know Kerri can attest, the mark that she has left on our campus and the greater scientific community extends far beyond her many research discoveries. Kerri was a bright light of unbridled enthusiasm for science and education, and her indelible smile and positivity were fixtures on our campus that will be sorely missed. She will be fondly remembered for the kindness and generosity that she always displayed to her colleagues and friends.

Kerri is survived by her parents, Ron and Renee Mowen of Savoy, Illinois, her grandmother, JoAnne Baxter of Stronghurst, one brother, Brandon (Laura) Mowen of Cadis, Kentucky, two nieces, Morgan and Hope Howard of Cadis, Kentucky, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

A "Celebration of Life" is being planned by friends and colleagues. The date and time will be announced after final arrangements have been made.

In remembrance of Kerri and her passion for research, the family is asking that donations be made to either the American Cancer Society or Lupus Foundation of America.

Sincerely,

Benjamin F. Cravatt

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