Lu Yao

I am a currently a 1st year PhD Candidate at the University of Chicago in the Committee on Evolutionary Biology, focusing on primate and hominid evolution. My past research concentrated on the evolution of relative brain size, specifically in relation to the conundrum surrounding a hominid nicknamed "The Hobbit" (not from Lord of the Rings). Currently, my research is taking a turn to focus more on the evolution of feeding mechanisms and digestion using phylogenetic comparative methods.

Aside from evolutionary biology, I also love to travel and eat! These passions allow me to learn about the cultures people create and the infinite diversity that has evolved around us. I am constantly amazed by the enriching taste of something that sounds as disgusting as haggis or the gorgeous view of the Great Wall that a photo could never capture or the exhilarating rush of coasteering along the coast of Wales. I am in awe of what the world has to offer.