Join us as we welcome Dr. Ryan McRae to discuss the African fossil record and the inherent biases that shape our understanding of hominin evolution. In this episode, we delve into why certain types of fossils, like teeth, are more commonly found and whether this is due to their abundance or the methods we use in fossil searches.
Dr. Ryan McRae is a paleoanthropologist whose research focuses on the hominin fossil record on a macroscopic scale. His Ph.D. work examined the biases in fossil recognition and the implications for identifying species and understanding evolutionary relationships. Ryan’s expertise in osteology, anatomy, and comparative morphology, combined with his passion for education and public outreach, makes for an enlightening discussion.
Discover how biases in fossil discovery and cataloging affect our perception of human evolution and hear about the latest trends and theories in the field. Don’t miss this fascinating episode that sheds light on the complexities of paleoanthropological research.
About Dr. Ryan McRae:
Ryan McRae earned his B.A. from Yale University in Biological Anthropology and Archaeological Sciences and his Ph.D. from George Washington University in Hominid Paleobiology. He currently contributes to the Human Origins Program as a contractor, focusing on research, education, and international collaboration. His work aims to enhance science literacy and engage the public in discussions about human evolution.
