Applied Evolutionary Anthropology Lab
Department of Anthropology | University of California, Santa Barbara
Our research considers the behavioral ecology of the human family and the application of evolutionary anthropology to efforts to improve human wellbeing. We carry out field research in collaboration with the National Institute for Medical Research in Mwanza, Tanzania. We also conduct research using secondary demographic surveys, online surveys and on campus with UCSB students. Active foci include: (i) the evolution of gender norms, (ii) the impact of marriage practices on wellbeing, and (iii) coevolution of parental care and fertility. You can view press releases on our recent research here, and a full list of publications below.
Lab Members
The AEA lab is headed by Dr David Lawson, Associate Professor of Anthropology at UCSB. If you are a student interested in joining our lab, or a researcher interested in collaborating, please get in touch! For mentoring opportunities see here.
Lab PI
Originally from Northern Ireland, David joined UCSB in 2016. He was previously based at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and at University College London.
Email: dlawson@ucsb.edu
Twitter: @DavidWLawson
Graduate Student
Joseph is interested in sexual conflict, gender equality and understanding why some men are more supportive of women than others.
Email: jkilgallen@ucsb.edu
Twitter: @JosephKilgallen
Graduate Student
Zhian has broad interests in human behavioral ecology & social learning, but especially shifts in parental investment and attitudes.
Email: zhian@ucsb.edu
Twitter: @ZhianChen4
Mascot
Pietro's research interests include food, more food, long walks on the beach and chasing geckos. Emotional support hugs available on request.
Instagram: @pietro_enriquezlawson
Collaborators & Lab Alumni
We have a long list of collaborators (see publications below). Featured below are key collaborators at the National Institute for Medical Research in Mwanza, Tanzania, along with recent graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.
Publications
See also Google Scholar (can't find a PDF? Email us!)
© 2019