I am a paleoanthropologist specializing in evolutionary morphology and the origin of our species, Homo sapiens. More specifically, my research focuses on the evolution and development of human craniofacial morphology in fossil species ranging from Homo erectus to H. neanderthalensis and H. sapiens. I use three-dimensional imaging techniques and shape analysis (geometric morphometrics) to virtually reconstruct fossil material and to quantify variation in the skull through time, across species and during growth. I also apply bone histology methods to explore facial growth patterns. I advise PhD, MA and undergraduate Honor in the Major (HIM) student research projects focused on human growth and development, evolutionary morphology and human variation.
Working with Dr. Freidline:
The work that I conduct is laboratory based, largely involving digital microscopy, three-dimensional imaging and computer programming. I am looking for highly motivated and disciplined students who can develop independent research projects. I encourage my students to apply for grants, present their research at national and international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals and network with national and international colleagues.
Dr. Freidline is looking for graduate students with an interest in:
- Human evolution and human origins
- Craniofacial anatomy
- Geometric morphometrics
- Virtual anthropology and three-dimensional techniques
- Growth and development
- Bone histology
Examples of research conducted by Dr. Freidline’s students:
- Quantification of maxillary growth using surface histology and geometric morphometrics
- Variability and evolution of mandibular form in Homo sapiens
- Maxillary bone modeling in Pan troglodytes