Peter W. Lucas

Professor of Anthropology
E-mail pwlucas@gwu.edu
Office: Bell Hall B-01 / (202) 994-6964
Lab: Bell Hall B-05C / (202) 994-7894

Dr. Lucas is a biological anthropologist studying primate feeding ecology and feeding processes.

Research

Dr. Lucas's specific focus is on feeding and food choice in mammals, particularly in humans and other primates, and anatomical and physiological adaptations that have evolved in relation to that. This stems from a long-term interest in dentistry and the evolution of the mouth. This has broadened from an initial focus on dental function, chewing and swallowing to consider any other physical and chemical factors that influence food preference.

He writes that "my interests encompass a wide spectrum of activities with an emphasis on ingenuity and the continual search for new approaches and collaborations on both theoretical and technical planes. Individual projects have been designed so that their relevance to researchers in related disciplines (e.g. ecology, vertebrate paleontology, primatology, physical anthropology, oral biology, food science and materials science) is maintained. I've done this (a) to challenge myself, (b) to attract collaborators and (c) to keep the maximum number of funding options open."

Current Research Projects

1. The evolution of dental enamel
   
2. Natural field investigations of feeding ecology in primates

Selected Publications

Book

2004	Lucas, P.W. Dental Functional Morphology: How Teeth Work. A research-level book aiming to be a definitive statement on oral function. New York: Cambridge University Press. 372 pages. [2007: produced in paperback]

Articles and Book Chapters

2007	Lucas, P.W., and Wood, B.A. "Structural and functional trends in mandibular and tooth morphology within the hominid clade," Journal of Anatomy 210: 771.
2006	Teaford, M.F., Lucas, P.W., Ungar, P.S., and Glander, K.E. "Mechanical defenses in leaves eaten by Costa Rican howling monkeys (Alouatta palliata)," American Journal of Physical Anthropology 129: 99-104.
2006	Sui, Z.Q., Agrawal, K.R., Corke, H., and Lucas, P.W. "Biting efficiency in relation to incisal angulation," Archives of Oral Biology 51: 491-497.
2006	Ang, K.Y., Lucas, P.W., and Tan, H.T.W. "Incisal orientation and biting efficiency," Journal of Human Evolution 50: 663-672.

Courses Taught

Anth 140: Primate Tropical Ecology (in development)
Anth 141: Human Functional Anatomy
Anth 148: Primatology

Education

D.Sc. 2002, University of London
Ph.D. 1980, University of London
B.S. Hons.1976, University College London