Dr. Derek Briggs

Biography

Derek Briggs is the G. Evelyn Hutchinson Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Yale University and serves as the Curator of the Yale Peabody Museum. His primary research focus is on the preservation and evolutionary significance of exceptionally preserved fossil biotas, employing various methodologies including experimental work on decay and fossilization processes. His investigations encompass early diagenetic mineralization and organic preservation, as well as extensive fieldwork at locations renowned for their extraordinary fossil findings. Briggs has contributed significantly to our understanding of the conditions and mechanisms leading to exceptional fossil preservation and has collaborated with students and colleagues around the globe. His notable research includes explorations of the Burgess Shale, leading investigations into fossils that exhibit remarkable preservation details, contributing to our understanding of early biodiversity and evolutionary processes. He employs modern techniques such as geochemical and isotopic analyses to discern environmental conditions affecting fossil preservation. Briggs has authored numerous publications reflecting his extensive research and has been actively engaged in teaching various courses on the history of life and evolutionary biology.

Research Interests

Experience

Courses