Welcome
I am a biological anthropologist who studies how humans evolved to walk and run. Although the raw speed and strength of humans pales in comparison to that of our closest living relatives, the great apes, we humans are distinguished from other primates by our great endurance and economy, as well as the remarkable diversity of environments our species now occupies and moves in. These observations lead to the core questions of my research:
To address these questions I use an array of field- and lab-based approaches to study the biomechanics of walking and running in humans and non-human primates. My methods include high speed motion capture, ground reaction force analysis and ultrasound imaging. I have studied chimpanzees and modern humans in both industrialized and non-industrialized societies. To date, much of my research has focused on the biomechanics of the foot, which serves as an excellent model for understanding the evolution of bipedalism. I also apply my research to reconstructing locomotion in fossil hominins.
- How did our species' evolutionary history result in our unique and versatile form of bipedal locomotion?
- What are the consequences of this process for musculoskeletal health in modern societies?
To address these questions I use an array of field- and lab-based approaches to study the biomechanics of walking and running in humans and non-human primates. My methods include high speed motion capture, ground reaction force analysis and ultrasound imaging. I have studied chimpanzees and modern humans in both industrialized and non-industrialized societies. To date, much of my research has focused on the biomechanics of the foot, which serves as an excellent model for understanding the evolution of bipedalism. I also apply my research to reconstructing locomotion in fossil hominins.