SAM W. HEADS, Ph.D.
Director & Curator-in-Charge
Sam specializes in the systematics, evolution and paleontology of insects. His research incorporates the study of both fossil and modern taxa in order to investigate phylogeny, biogeography, and paleoecology, as well as comparative morphology and theoretical evolutionary biology. Focused primarily on the Orthoptera (grasshoppers and crickets), he has conducted fieldwork to study fossil and modern insects on every continent except Antarctica.
M. JARED THOMAS
Curator of Collections
Jared specializes in digital imaging of paleontological specimens using advanced microscopy and macro-photography techniques. His research interests include the preparation and conservation of fossil material with particular emphasis on amber, the taphonomy and preservation of amber inclusions, and the systematics of fossil and extant Orthoptera. Jared also coordinates documentation and conservation efforts for the Milton Sanderson Dominican Amber Collection.