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David M. Raup

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David M. Raup was an American paleontologist known for applying quantitative methods to the study of evolution and extinction. He extensively used computer modeling to analyze the geometric shapes of shells, helping paleontologists understand the physical constraints of morphological evolution. Together with Jack Sepkoski, Raup analyzed the marine fossil record to propose that mass extinctions follow a periodic 26-million-year cycle.

He spent a significant portion of his career at the University of Chicago.

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What was David M. Raup's contribution to paleontology?

David M. Raup was an American paleontologist who pioneered the use of computer modeling to study morphological evolution. He used algorithms to simulate how different shell shapes evolved over time.

What theory is David Raup famous for co-authoring?

Raup and his colleague Jack Sepkoski co-authored influential theories on periodic mass extinctions. Their 1984 paper proposed that mass extinctions followed a roughly 26-million-year cycle.

What book did David Raup write about extinction?

Raup wrote the highly influential book "Extinction: Bad Genes or Bad Luck?" which was published in 1991. The book explores the role of random chance in the survival and extinction of species.

Where did David Raup teach?

Raup had a prominent academic career, teaching at the University of Rochester and later at the University of Chicago. At Chicago, he worked closely with other renowned paleontologists at the Field Museum.