1941-

American Paleontologist and Educator

American paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould has contributed important insights into the nature of life and evolutionary science. His theory of punctuated equilibrium posed a compelling emendation to Darwinian theories of evolution. As both a respected researcher and science popularizer, he has published many books, demonstrating a unique ability to make complex scientific data clear and entertaining to average readers and students.

Born in New York City, Gould attended Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio, where he graduated with an A.B. He remained at Antioch and taught geology through 1966. His deepening interest in paleontology led him to pursue graduate work. He received his Ph.D. in evolutionary biology and paleontology from Columbia University in 1967.

Gould's next teaching assignment was an assistant professorship in the Geology Department at Harvard University, followed by an associate professorship. In 1973 he became a full...