This memoir commences by stating that it seemed desirable to arrange and preserve what memorials could still be found of one who had done very much to promote the study of natural science in Scotland, but whose memory had well-nigh perished.

Dr Skene's father and grandfather were both eminent physicians in Aberdeen, where he was born, on 13th August 1731.

His early education was conducted in Aberdeen. He spent the winter of 1751-2 in Edinburgh, attending various medical classes; and in the autumn of 1752 proceeded to London, where he studied under Hunter and Smellie, besides attending several of the hospitals.