Thomas Stewart

Thomas Stewart is an Assistant Professor of Biology at Penn State University, where he leads research at the intersection of evolutionary biology, developmental biology, and paleontology. His lab explores how morphological novelty evolves, focusing on vertebrate appendages like fins and limbs.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., University of Chicago (2015)
  • B.S., Syracuse University (2009)

Stewart’s research integrates paleontological data with experimental embryology and developmental genetics to investigate evolutionary transitions. Current projects include the developmental basis of adipose fin origins, functional analysis of Devonian fossils like Tiktaalik roseae, and limb diversification mechanisms. His work has been featured in media outlets such as National Geographic and BBC.

His lab is located at 218 Mueller Laboratory and actively recruits postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates. Collaborations include institutions like the University of Chicago, Yale University, and the Huck Institute of Life Sciences.