Harper: A Distinguished Career in Palaeontology and Academic Leadership
The study of ancient life requires a blend of rigorous field research, analytical software development, and academic stewardship. Harper has exemplified this multidisciplinary approach throughout a prolific career, contributing significantly to our understanding of Earth's biological history and leading prestigious institutions across Europe and Asia.
Key Facts
- Academic Roles: Former Professor of Palaeontology and Head of Geology at the Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen.
- Publications: Authored over 10 books and monographs and more than 250 scientific articles.
- Software Contribution: Co-writer of the PAST software package alongside Øyvind Hammer.
- Research Focus: Major evolutionary events including the Cambrian Explosion and Ordovician mass extinctions.
- Global Reach: Conducted research in Chile, China, Greenland, Russia, and Tibet.
- Leadership: Served as Principal of Van Mildert College (2011–2021) and Deputy Head of Colleges at Durham University (2011–2013).
Scientific Contributions and Research
Harper's research focuses on the most pivotal transitions in the history of life. He has specifically addressed the Cambrian Explosion—the rapid appearance of most major animal phyla—and the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event, a period of significant increase in marine biodiversity. Additionally, his work examines the end Ordovician mass extinctions, which helped shape the trajectory of life on Earth.
To support these scientific inquiries, Harper co-developed the PAST ( Palaeontological Statistics) software package with Øyvind Hammer, providing a vital tool for researchers to analyze complex biological and geological data.
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Global Fieldwork and Academic Recognition
The scope of Harper's research is truly global, involving extensive fieldwork in diverse and challenging environments. His expeditions have taken him to Tibet, China, Russia, Greenland, and Chile, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of geological strata across different continents.
This dedication to the field has earned him prestigious international accolades, including:
- Foreign membership in the Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters.
- An Einstein Professorship within the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
- A D.Sc. (Doctor of Science) from Queen's University Belfast.
Academic Leadership and Administration
Beyond research, Harper has held significant administrative roles. At the University of Copenhagen, he served as the Head of Geology in the Natural History Museum of Denmark. Later, his career transitioned into higher education management at Durham University.
Between 2011 and 2013, he served as the Deputy Head of Colleges, overseeing research and scholarly activities. He also provided a decade of leadership as the Principal of Van Mildert College from 2011 to 2021.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Publications | 10+ books/monographs; 250+ scientific articles |
| Key Software | PAST (co-written with Øyvind Hammer) |
| Primary Research Areas | Cambrian Explosion, Ordovician Biodiversification, Ordovician Extinctions |
| Fieldwork Locations | Chile, China, Greenland, Russia, Tibet |
| Major Honors | Einstein Professorship, Royal Danish Academy membership, D.Sc. (Queen's University Belfast) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PAST software package?
PAST is a software package co-written by Harper and Øyvind Hammer, designed to assist scientists in performing statistical analyses relevant to palaeontology and geology.
Which major biological events has Harper researched?
Harper has focused on the Cambrian Explosion, the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event, and the mass extinctions that occurred at the end of the Ordovician period.
Where has Harper conducted his geological fieldwork?
His research programs have spanned several global regions, including Tibet, China, Russia, Greenland, and Chile.
What leadership roles did Harper hold at Durham University?
He served as the Principal of Van Mildert College from 2011 to 2021 and was the Deputy Head of Colleges (Research and Scholarly Activities) from 2011 to 2013.
What are some of Harper's most notable academic honors?
He has been awarded an Einstein Professorship in the Chinese Academy of Sciences, a D.Sc. from Queen's University Belfast, and foreign membership in the Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters.