Michael Coates

Michael Coates is a Professor in the Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy at the University of Chicago, focusing on early vertebrate diversity and evolution. His research integrates paleontology, evolutionary developmental biology, and phylogenetics, with ongoing projects on tetrapod origins, shark-like fish evolution, and ray-finned fish radiation. He was elected a 2021 AAAS Fellow for his contributions to vertebrate paleontology.

• Education: B.Sc. (1982) and Ph.D. (1988) in Vertebrate Paleontology from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Research Interests: Coates explores evolutionary transitions such as the fin-to-limb transformation, early gnathostome phylogeny, and the role of fossils in developmental evolution. His work often combines large datasets, molecular data, and advanced imaging techniques like CT scanning.

Article Trends: Recent publications emphasize vertebrate phylogeny, fossil record completeness, and developmental evolution. Subfields include tetrapod origins, shark morphology, fish brain evolution, and evo-devo mechanisms.

Scientific Awards:

• 2021 AAAS Fellow

Advising & Collaborations: Coates has mentored notable alumni including Dr. Lauren Sallan (OIST Marine Macroevolution Unit) and Dr. Tom Stewart (Penn State University). He collaborates extensively with labs like Prince and Ho, integrating fossils and molecular data in evolutionary studies.

Labs & Teams: The Coates Lab promotes integrative research at the intersection of paleobiology, anatomy, and developmental biology, utilizing technologies like 3D printing and CT scanning to study vertebrate historical biodiversity.