The Science of Cats and the Future of Nature with Jonathan Losos
Explore the secret life of cats! Join us for this event co-hosted by the WashU Alumni Association and Arts & Sciences.
The domestic cat—your cat—has, from its evolutionary origins in Africa, been transformed in comparatively little time into one of the most successful and diverse species on the planet. Learn why Jonathan Losos, the William H. Danforth Distinguished University Professor and director of the Living Earth Collaborative, is teaching a course on cats and how this work relates to the university’s efforts to conserve biodiversity and sustain life on Earth. In his presentation, Losos offers key revelations from his recent book, "The Cat's Meow: How Cats Evolved from the Savanna to Your Sofa," and explores how scientists are using all the cutting-edge tools of biodiversity science (GPS tracking, genomics, forensic archaeology) to understand where cats came from, why they do what they do, and what the future may hold.
All are welcome at this free lecture and post-event reception celebrating the Power of Arts & Sciences.
Introduction by Feng Sheng Hu, the Richard G. Engelsmann Dean of Arts & Sciences and Lucille P. Markey Distinguished Professor
Presentation by Jonathan Losos, followed by Q&A and post-event reception
This event will be held in person and livestreamed.
Learn more about previous and upcoming Power of Arts & Sciences events.