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The Institute of Human Origins is one of the preeminent research organizations in the world devoted to the science of human origins.

       

Study with us at the School of Human Evolution and Social Change.

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People + Research    

A $4.9 miilion, three-year grant from the John Templeton Foundation to IHO will allow IHO scientists to undertake a multifaceted, transdisciplinary collaborative research project seeking to increase our understanding of the process of "how we became human."

Read more at ASU News>>>

Go to IHO-Templeton Research Projects page>>>

 

IHO at the "cutting-edge" of research in early tool technologies
Two published papers—one each in Nature and Science—document a two-step process of projectile weapon evolution that ultimately allows modern humans to conquer the planet—building a projectile and then figuring out how to hurl it with greater distance and accuracy with assisted leverage—the root of everything from hurling spears to artillery to spaceships whipping around planets. 

Science—Earlier evidence for attaching  stone to a wooden shaft to use as a spear

Nature—Evidence for an advanced Stone Age technology dated to 71,000 years ago

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upcoming events (view all)

Lucy Turns 40!—Events to celebrate 40 years of discovery

Save the Date! Thursday, February 12, 2015
Tempe Center for the Arts
Donald Johanson talks about the exciting discovery 40 years ago and today's compelling research in human origins. 

Stay tuned for ticket information.

Evolution of Social Complexity Lecture Series
Cosponsored by IHO, Consortium for Biosocial Complex Systems, and School of Human Evolution and Social Change. Lectures end April 2015. Full schedule here