Jerry A. Coyne

Jerry A. Coyne is an evolutionary biologist and Emeritus Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Chicago. He has served on both the Committee on Genetics and the Committee on Evolutionary Biology. Coyne earned a doctorate in evolutionary biology at Harvard University, where he worked in the laboratory of Richard Lewontin. Following a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California at Davis, he began his academic career as an assistant professor in the Department of Zoology at the University of Maryland before joining the University of Chicago faculty.

Coyne's scientific research focuses on the origin of species, a central question in evolutionary biology. His work uses genetic analyses to identify the genes responsible for reproductive barriers between distinct species of the fruit fly Drosophila, including hybrid sterility, ecological differentiation, and mate discrimination. By analyzing the patterns and actions of these genes, Coyne has contributed to the understanding of evolutionary processes that drive genetic change and speciation.

Coyne has authored more than 125 refereed scientific papers and 180 other articles, book reviews, and columns. He co-authored the scholarly book "Speciation" with H. Allen Orr. His ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to general audiences is reflected in his book "Why Evolution Is True," which examines evidence for evolution from biogeography to molecular biology. The book became a New York Times bestseller and was named one of Newsweek's "50 Books for Our Times." Coyne's follow-up, "Faith Versus Fact: Why Science and Religion Are Incompatible," explores the relationship between science and religion and has generated significant discussion on the intersection of science and belief. His writing has appeared in Nature, Science, The New York Times, Times Literary Supplement, and The New Republic.

In addition to his books, Coyne maintains a website in blog format titled "Why Evolution Is True," which covers topics in science, medical ethics, atheism, determinism, philosophy, and free speech. He has served as Vice President and President of the Society for the Study of Evolution. Coyne is a critic of creationism, theistic evolution, and intelligent design, which he describes as a pseudoscientific form of religious creationism. His work in evolutionary biology, genetics, and science communication has contributed to public understanding of evolution and scientific skepticism.

Coyne has received several honors, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Richard Dawkins Award from Atheist Alliance International for promoting skepticism, humanism, and public understanding of evolution. He was also elected a Fellow of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry, recognizing his contributions to science, rational inquiry, and public education.