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Module content

This module is designed to introduce students to current research in the field of human and non-human primate evolution. The topics covered are chosen to reflect recent discoveries and address current controversies in the field. The emphasis is on critical assessment of the methodologies employed in reaching conclusions about our evolutionary past. In addition to exploring the implications of fossil materials, examples of broader topics for discussion include: phylogenetic analysis, dating of evolutionary events, species recognition in the fossil record, prediction of behaviour from fossil material, palaeoenvironmental reconstruction, and environmental correlates of major events in primate evolution. By the end of this course, students should have a good understanding of key current research issues in the field of human and non-human primate evolution.

Indicative topics (note that these may change to reflect recent developments in primate evolution research) Primate origins: where, when and how did the first primates evolve?

The Palaeocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum: an example of rapid global warming in the past

Anthropoid origins: where, when and how did the first anthropoid primates evolve?

Primate diversification on Madagascar Who were the first hominins?

How many species of early hominins should we recognise?

Did island dwarfing affect hominins?

Teaching Delivery

Weekly 2-hour seminars

Learning outcomes:

Having completed the module, students will:

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• • have an understanding of the main phases of primate evolution;

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• • have an understanding of the main methodological challenges faced by researchers aiming to infer the evolutionary past of primates;

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• • have an understanding of the main conceptual gaps that persist in our understanding of primate evolution;

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• • be able independently to identify a topic in need of further research, and to deliver a critical comprehensive review of that topic at a professional standard, including a synthesis of existing knowledge, an appraisal of existing gaps, and a credible plan for future research.

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Additional information:

Each week, a subset of students will prepare and deliver a formal presentation, taking different sides in a current controversy related to the week’s topic. These presentations are not assessed but are intended to provide important practice in presenting scientific content to a live audience. Feedback will be provided as appropriate.

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