Evolution at Vanderbilt Today

Today, evolutionary studies are everywhere at Vanderbilt, unfolding in microscopic changes in yeast and etched into the fossilized bones of long-extinct creatures. Explore how contemporary researchers such as Antonis Rokas, Megan Behringer, Larisa DeSantis, and Neil Kelley apply evolutionary thinking to study yeast genetics, microbial adaptation, predator fossils, and ancient marine vertebrates. Objects on display include a saber-toothed cat skull, Petri dishes, baker’s yeast, and more, highlighting the diversity of evolutionary science in action. This case celebrates the vibrant, interdisciplinary community of scholars carrying forward Vanderbilt’s evolutionary legacy.