Christopher Brochu

Christopher Brochu is a Professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Iowa, within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research integrates fossil, morphological, and molecular data to study the evolutionary history of crocodyliforms, including alligators, crocodiles, and their extinct relatives. He is actively involved in paleontological research, focusing on phylogenetics, historical biogeography, and responses to environmental change over geological timescales.

His research interests lie at the intersection of vertebrate paleontology, systematics, and evolutionary biology. Dr. Brochu applies phylogenetic methods to analyze biodiversity patterns across deep time, particularly in crocodyliforms, which exhibit low modern diversity but a rich fossil record. His work spans continents and geological periods, with recent studies covering the Late Cretaceous to the Pliocene in North America, Africa, and the Neotropics. He investigates key evolutionary transitions, such as the move from land to water, morphological adaptations, and cryptic species diversity.

The recent publications (2019–2020) reflect a strong focus on crocodylomorph evolution, with studies appearing in high-impact journals like PNAS, Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, and Scientific Reports. These works examine inner ear adaptations, fossil taxonomy, and macroevolutionary patterns, highlighting interdisciplinary approaches combining anatomy, phylogenetics, and geology. The research consistently emphasizes integration of fossil and molecular data to resolve deep phylogenetic relationships.

Scientific Awards:

• Dean’s Scholar, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Iowa, 2006
• Collegiate Teaching Award, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Iowa, 2005
• Romer Prize, Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, 1996
• Stoye Award in General Herpetology, American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, 1996

Dr. Brochu has contributed significantly to mentoring and research funding through his academic roles, though specific students and grants are not detailed. His lab conducts extensive work on fossil crocodyliforms, using morphological datasets and phylogenetic frameworks to explore biodiversity and evolutionary dynamics. He is supported by institutional research facilities such as the Paleontology Repository and Geochemistry Lab at the University of Iowa. His research continues to shape understanding of vertebrate evolution and the interplay between Earth and life sciences.