Evolutionary morphology
Investigating the forms and structures of life

Research

The Evolutionary Morphology department focuses on understanding bauplan evolution – the origin and evolution of body plans – and how these have shaped morphological and phylogenetic diversification. A central research aim is to understand the emergence and continuous evolution of key morphological features in major plant and animal lineages, and how these features have influenced interactions with their (paleo)environments and the formation of modern ecosystems.

Research spans multiple time intervals, from the Paleozoic through the Mesozoic and Cenozoic to present-day organisms and ecosystems. It includes studies on the evolution of major organ systems, such as the diversification of invertebrate nervous systems and physiological and regenerative processes in vertebrates.

The department is organised around an explicitly interdisciplinary approach that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. It collaborates closely with other departments, particularly Evolutionary Diversity Dynamics. Most research is based on the Museum’s collections and is closely linked to the Collection Future science programme.

A wide range of methods is applied, including advanced imaging techniques such as CT scanning and 3D visualisation, phylogenetic comparative approaches, morphometrics, as well as histological and evolutionary developmental biology methods. These approaches are supported by integrated research infrastructures, including zoological laboratories, palaeontological preparation facilities and the Museum's 3D laboratory.