Anatomist. Monro succeeded his father, another Alexander (1697 - 1767), as Professor of Anatomy at the University of Edinburgh. He discovered the lymphatic systems, established the structure and function of the nervous system and noted the physiological effects of drugs.
In 1762, Monro married Katherine Inglis, whose family held estates at Redhall and Auchendinny. Monro bought the Craiglockhart Estate next to Redhall in the SW of Edinburgh in 1773. He was succeeded by his son, Alexander (1773 - 1859), the third to hold the Chair of Anatomy.