3D scanning fossils at the University of Utah's Protospace
Finding Cretaceous ammonites in the Pierre Shale of Montana
3D models of various microplankton (radiolarians, diatoms, forams, coccolithophores, and others)
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Instructed courses - Wright State University (Dayton, OH)
GTA - Wright State University
Student Mentorship
Field Trips
Open Data Platforms
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Teaching philosophy
Integrative paleobiology intrinsically builds analytical thinking and problem solving skills. Furthermore, the deep-time perspective of this discipline serves as an important pillar within the geosciences and biological sciences. When I teach, I incorporate quantitative, project based exercises to build open these existing strengths. Virtual models and 3D printing regularly appear in my courses and outreach because they provide unprecedented views of the complete morphology of reconstructed animals. These approaches allow specimens to be brought to life, and into the classroom, regardless of rarity, cost, or fragility.
3D scanning, reconstruction, and repair of the heteromorph ammonoid, Exiteloceras jenneyi
Ammonite shell with reconstructed interior, showing fractal-like septal walls (Hoploscaphites crassus Macroconch)
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3D printed heteromorph ammonite (Crioceratites nolani) with fragile spines and reconstructed soft body
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3D printed ammonite (Hoploscaphites crassus microconch) with reconstructed soft body and mouthparts (aptychi)
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3D printed trilobite (Dircranurus monstrosus). Real specimens are somewhat rare, and usually too expensive to include in teaching collections.
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Translucent, 3D printed ammonite (Eopachydiscus marcianus) used to display the full 3D morphology of the structures that create "suture patterns" - a diagnostic character of species that may have served important functions for regulating buoyancy (Peterman et al., 2021, Scientific Reports).
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At the University of Utah Career Fair, using fossils and 3D prints to inform students about an education in the geosciences and STEM fields.