In the Alemseged Lab
We combine intensive field work with cutting edge technology to better understand human evolution.
Virtual Paleoanthropology
Virtual paleoanthropology allows scientists to study one-of-a-kind fossils of our human ancestors without having the fossils in their possession. This means that the fossils can remain protected in the countries of origin with less risk of damage caused by repeated transportation for lending and the – albeit careful – handling by a number of scientists across years and decades.
Additionally, this allows multiple researchers across the world to collaborate in real-time, which speeds along the dissemination of information. Further, this method is non-destructive for physical tissues like fossilized tooth and bone.
Having digitized copies of fossils helps expand what we can do, and therefore, what we can know about our ancestors.
Digital Imaging
We dedicate much of our time using digital imaging techniques to collect new and comparable data for our interpretations. While it has been mentioned that this method speeds our collection of data and understanding of our history, it also allows us to address questions that cannot be answered qualitatively and macroscopically.
One method we use is a 3D hand-scanner to quickly convert a fossil or museum specimen into a digital copy. Using 3D software, we can take quantitative measurements and plot landmarks or mirror missing pieces to reconstruct broken fossils.
We also imploy the use of synchroton and mini-CT scanning to look at internal structures unavailable to the human eye, especially without destructive means. With these methods, we can compare thickness of cortical bone areas or direction of trabecular bone development to better understand various stressors applied to bone during growth and behavior as just one example.
With either of these methods, the resultant digital copy also allows us to 3D print specimens for teaching and sharing through public outreach, as well as qualitative examination which is still an important and valued aspect of fossil identification.
Fieldwork
Ultimately, fieldwork is the point of origin for most of our data collection.
If we are not virtually working with the digitized discoveries of our past collections or with those of our colleagues, then we are in the field searching for more clues about our ancestors. Members of our team investigate several sites in East Africa, including Dikika and Mille-Longya.
However, field work also involves traveling to museums far and wide to examine fossil and comparative specimens. We have strong relationships with a number of museums for this purpose.
Latest Lab News
Eras After Dark
This year, the Field Museum's Homecoming event, Eras After Dark, welcomed visitors into "themed lounges where prehistoric eras meet modern decades". Laura and Maddie were joined by Makoto from the Tsegai Ape-Move Lab to present Timeline Trivia on animal (human)...
World-First European Exhibition
Zeray was recently interviewed by the Smithsonian Magazine in a story titled, "Meeting Lucy: How a World-First European Exhibition Brought Visitors Face to Face With the Fossil That ‘Shrinks Time’". The article, written by Paige Madison, describes the "rare trip out...
ESHE 2025
Several lab members were in attendance at the European Society for the Study of Human Evolution (ESHE), held in Paris, France earlier this year. Two gave presentations on their current research. According to ESHE's website, "The society promotes research into human...
With over 100 co-authors and over 2,000 citations,
research done at the Alemseged Lab is on-going and deliberate.
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Research at our lab strives to better understand our evolutionary past, physically and environmentally.
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Zeray Alemseged
An impressive research and service history highlights his engagement with both past and present.