Evolutionary Ecology of Extinct Brachiopods : Evolution and ecology of marine invertebrates from the Paleozoic geologic era

The prerequisite to developing effective strategies for conserving biodiversity is a profound understanding of the taxonomy and phylogeny of all life forms. It is especially important to appreciate the significance of such studies in extinct organisms; especially in organisms that were abundant in a certain geologic era, but have subsequently dwindled or become extinct. Such studies should help to understand extinction, accurately gauge the underlying causes behind loss of biodiversity and make predictions about future distribution of biodiversity. I use bio-statistical approaches to trace loss of biodiversity, and what should also serve as a starting point for conservation. My research interests encompass paleontology, geobiology, sedimentology, meteorology and paleoceanography; and have implications for the petroleum industry as research could potentially uncover new oil-rich locations.