‘Dinosaur Molecules’ Randy Rasumussen Lecture is April 3

Assistant Professor of Geology Paul Ullmann will be presenting the next Randy Rasmussen Memorial Lecture at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3, at the Chester Fritz Library.

Ullmann’s lecture is titled “Dinosaur molecules? Exploring how soft tissues and biologic molecules can persist in dinosaur bones.”

From the Chester Fritz Library website:

“We have known for over a decade that original cells, tissues (such as blood vessels), and proteins can occasionally survive in fossils, but the question of how remains mysterious. Jurassic Park suggested amber could be a source of ancient DNA, but is that really possible? In his talk, he will present several examples of such exceptional preservation, review what we know about burial circumstances that can promote long-term molecular stability, and highlight questions which still perplex molecular paleontologists.

Join us to hear Dr. Paul Ullmann from the Harold Hamm School of Geology and Geological Engineering on how dinosaur fossils can contain the building blocks of life and inspire our imaginations, shaping both popular culture and scientific discovery.”

Refreshments will be served.

To learn more about the Randy Rasmussen Memorial Lecture Series, visit the Chester Fritz Library website.