Our group studies the dynamic co-evolution of the Earth and Life throughout geological time, linking deep planetary processes, fossil biodiversity and the conservation of natural heritage. Our interdisciplinary approach combines the geochemistry of ancient rocks, astrobiology, dinosaur paleontology, vertebrate macroevolution, island mammal evolution, petrology, mineralogy, gemology, and the science of paleontological conservation. Through field observations, material characterization, geochemical analyses, and artificial intelligence, our team uncovers how major environmental crises and biological innovations have shaped our planet.
Our Research topics & contacts
Are you a student looking for an internship or a research project (B.Sc., M.Sc.), or a journalist seeking expert insights on Earth sciences, palaeontology, or the origins of life? Get in touch directly with our lead researchers, or contact the Naturalis media team at communicatie@naturalis.mom to bring groundbreaking science to light!
- Origin of life, biosignatures, Precambrian, geochemistry, hot springs, Mars.
- Contact : Dr. Mark van Zuilen
- Vertebrate paleontology, evolution of dinosaurs and marine reptiles, ecology of extinct ecosystems.
- Contact : Dr. Anne S. Schulp
- Paleobiogeography, island evolution, Cenozoic fauna.
- Contacts: Dr. Alexandra van der Geer & Dr. Lars van den Hoek Ostende
- Gemmology, mineralogy, petrology.
- Contacts: Dr. Hanco Zwaan & Dr. Leo Kriegsman
- Conservation science and collection specimen preparation.
- Contact: Dr. Eduard Pop
