To celebrate Darwin Day on 12 February 2023, the anniversary of his birth on 12 February 1809, the Christ’s College Darwin Society has invited two current PhD students at the University of Cambridge to talk about their different connections to Charles Darwin and his work: Paula Darwin and Bassel Arnaout.
Growing Up a Darwin: My Journey into Science
Paula is a direct descendant of Charles Darwin, through his son George. She is a PhD student in the Department of Biochemistry and the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, working on lipid remodelling and metabolic dysfunction in diet-induced obesity. She will discuss her experience of growing up in the Darwin family, and the factors that persuaded her to pursue a scientific career.
The Continuing Grandeur: Glimpses of Evolution
Bassel is a Christ’s PhD student who works on modern evolutionary theory. He will discuss the enduring relevance of Darwin’s thought to our present understanding of evolution and natural selection, with examples from his work. Both speakers will attend dinner in Formal Hall afterwards.
