Dr. Paul Upchurch

Biography

Paul Upchurch is a vertebrate palaeobiologist specializing in the evolution of dinosaurs and terrestrial animals. He studied Natural Sciences at Cambridge, focusing on Zoology and has held research fellowships at Cambridge and Bristol. Since joining UCL in 2003, Paul has been promoted to Professor and became the Head of the Department of Earth Sciences in July 2018. His research primarily includes the study of gigantic sauropod dinosaurs, such as Brontosaurus and Diplodocus, which are among the largest terrestrial animals known. By exploring the biomechanical challenges associated with their weight support, locomotion, and reproduction, Paul contributes to understanding evolutionary patterns over multi-million year time scales. Additionally, Paul is interested in the methods used to reconstruct the Tree of Life, investigating evolutionary patterns and processes. Overcoming a severe visual impairment he acquired at the age of eight, Paul is committed to improving representation for students and staff with disabilities in academia, especially in STEM fields. He is actively involved in committees and initiatives that support diversity in science and aims to provide role models for individuals with disabilities.

Research Interests

Experience