Paleontologist Niles Eldredge has been a curator at the American Museum of Natural History since 1969. He serves as chief curator for the Museum's Hall of Biodiversity, as well as for various special exhibits. In 1972, inspired by his work with trilobite fossils, Eldredge originated the landmark evolutionary theory of “punctuated equilibria” with Stephen Jay Gould. Eldredge has written numerous books to champion biodiversity, challenge creationism and explain evolution, including 2005's Darwin: Discovering the Tree of Life.

Featured in:
The Seed Salon: Andrea Barrett + Niles Eldredge

Portrait by Julian Dufort