Robert G. Franciscus
Associate Professor
Office: 131 Macbride Hall/135 Macbride Hall
Phone: (319) 335-1421/0945
robert-franciscus@uiowa.edu
Background:
My research program is focused on the Middle and Later Pleistocene periods of genus Homo evolution. I am particularly interested in the evolutionary significance of the distinctive Neandertal craniofacial pattern in terms of the possible developmental, biomechanical, and stochastic models underlying its evolution over time in Europe and western Asia. I am also interested in the origins of modern humans and the definitional problems associated with the concept of anatomical “modernity.” I have focused morphologically on the mid-facial region of the skull given the central role that the nasal capsule plays in the development of the hominid cranium in terms of respiratory function, but I have also extended the anatomical focus to ribs and overall thoracic anatomy given its functional tie to respiration as well.
Recent collaborative projects include analysis and description of: the early modern crania and mandibles from Dolni Vestonice (Czech Republic); the mid-face of the early modern Oase 2 cranium (Romania), the mid-face of the Middle Pleistocene Thomas Quarry 3 remains (Morocco), and the mid-face of the early Upper Paleolithic child’s skeleton from Lagar Velho (Portugal) controversially argued to show Neandertal/early modern admixture. Other recent collaborative projects include: 3-dimensional modeling of bite force and efficiency in Neandertals and modern humans in order to test models of para-masticatory behavioral influences on Neandertal facial form; 3-dimensional CT-based reconstruction of Neandertal vocal tract anatomy; assessment of craniofacial integration vs. modularity in living humans, chimpanzees and gorillas; and analysis of craniofacial growth modification in pigs via facial suture alteration.Courses Taught: 113:013 Human Origins 113:165 Human Variation 113:169 Human Evolutionary Anatomy 113:190 Human Osteology 113:195 Laboratory Methods in Biological Anthropology 113:197 Modern Human Origins 113:285 Graduate Seminar: Biological Anthropology 113:288 Graduate Seminar: Paleoanthropology Seminar |
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