Our understanding of the evolutionary origin of animals has changed dramatically in recent years. Continuing our talk series, museum director Prof. Paul Smith will look at the beginning of animal life, with particular attention to the Sirius Passet fossil site in the north of Greenland. The exceptionally preserved fossils from this site have been key in the development of our understanding of the ‘Cambrian Explosion’. Paul will discuss evidence for the timing of the origin of animals, as well as the evolution of modern marine ecosystems and food webs. Prepare to journey back in time more than half a billion years…
Paul Smith is the Director of Oxford University Museum of Natural History and Professor of Natural History, and has over thirty years of experience on Arctic scientific expeditions. His research is focused on the interactions of Earth systems and organisms, particularly in relation to the origin and early evolution of animals, and combines the study of sediments and palaeoenvironments with palaeobiology and geochemistry.
*Please note, this lecture may not be suitable for young children, but is suitable for adults and young people – beginners and experts welcome!
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