Sam W. Heads, English-American entomologist and palaeontologist

Dr. Sam W. Heads, a distinguished British palaeontologist, was born on April 22, 1983, in the historic county of Northumberland, United Kingdom. He is widely recognized for his profound contributions to the study of ancient life, particularly concerning insects. His career trajectory showcases a dedication to both scientific discovery and scholarly community engagement.

Academic Journey and Specialization

His foundational academic training commenced at the University of Portsmouth, where he honed his skills and expanded his knowledge in the fascinating world of palaeontology and entomology. In 2004, Dr. Heads successfully completed his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc. Hons) in Palaeobiology and Evolution, a field that explores the history of life on Earth through the fossil record and evolutionary processes. Further deepening his expertise, he was awarded his Ph.D. in Entomology in 2009, also from the University of Portsmouth, solidifying his specialization in the study of insects, both living and extinct. This robust academic background has established him as a leading authority on the taxonomy, systematics, and palaeontology of Orthoptera.

Orthoptera, an order of insects encompassing familiar creatures like grasshoppers, crickets, and katydids, are a primary focus of his research. His work in taxonomy involves the scientific classification of these organisms, while systematics seeks to understand their evolutionary relationships. Through palaeontology, Dr. Heads uncovers and interprets the fossilized remains of ancient Orthoptera, providing crucial insights into their evolutionary history and past environments.

Professional Affiliations and Community Engagement

Beyond his significant research endeavors, Dr. Heads actively participates in and contributes to several prestigious scientific societies. He holds the esteemed title of a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London, one of the world's oldest and most respected active biological societies, dedicated to the study of natural history. Furthermore, he is a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society, an organization that promotes the science of entomology through research and publications. His commitment to the entomological community is further evidenced by his past roles as an Officer and Editor-in-Chief at the Orthopterists' Society, where he undoubtedly played a pivotal role in shaping the discourse and dissemination of research within this specialized field.

Current Research Base

Currently, Dr. Heads is based at the Illinois Natural History Survey, an integral part of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This institution, renowned for its extensive collections and research programs focused on biodiversity and environmental science, provides a fitting environment for his ongoing work in palaeontology and entomology, particularly his continued exploration of Orthoptera.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dr. Sam W. Heads

Who is Dr. Sam W. Heads?
Dr. Sam W. Heads is a distinguished British palaeontologist, renowned for his expertise in the taxonomy, systematics, and palaeontology of Orthoptera (crickets, grasshoppers, and katydids).
Where and when was he born?
He was born on April 22, 1983, in Northumberland, United Kingdom.
What are his primary fields of study?
His primary fields of study are palaeontology and entomology, with a specific focus on the Orthoptera order of insects.
Where did he receive his education?
Dr. Heads received both his B.Sc. (Hons) in Palaeobiology and Evolution (2004) and his Ph.D. in Entomology (2009) from the University of Portsmouth in the UK.
What are some of his notable professional affiliations?
He is a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London and a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society. He also previously served as an Officer and Editor-in-Chief at the Orthopterists' Society.
Where is Dr. Heads currently based?
He is currently based at the Illinois Natural History Survey, which is affiliated with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.