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Beyond the Thrifty Genotype: Examining Evolutionary Hypotheses for Modern Metabolic Health

Nov. 12, 2024—By: Andy Flick, Evolutionary Studies Scientific Coordinator A new review co-led by graduate students Layla Brassington and Audrey Arner of the Lea Lab discusses the formulation of the popular and impactful Thrifty Genotype Hypothesis. This hypothesis, proposed by James Neel in 1962, suggests that fat deposition and energy conservation were once useful traits in times...

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The Legacy of Chancellor Kirkland: Education, Evolution, and the Scopes Trial

Sep. 27, 2024—By: Neomi Chen, Evolutionary Studies communications assistant Chancellor James Hampton Kirkland was a significant figure in the education landscape of the early 20th century, particularly recognized for his leadership of Vanderbilt University after the 1925 Scopes Trial. His views on evolution and education were instrumental in shaping the discourse around these topics at Vanderbilt University...