Michael Pittman

Michael Pittman serves as Assistant Professor at The Chinese University of Hong Kong's School of Life Sciences, where he has established himself as a leading expert in vertebrate paleobiology and dinosaur evolution. His academic journey began at University College London, where he earned his BSc in Geology (2006), MSc in Geoscience (2007), and PhD in Palaeobiology (2012). Previously, he served as Research Assistant Professor and Assistant Dean at the University of Hong Kong's Department of Earth Sciences from 2013 to 2022. His groundbreaking research focuses on the dinosaur-to-bird transition, early flight development, and soft tissue preservation in fossils. He pioneered the use of Laser-Stimulated Fluorescence (LSF) in paleontology, revolutionizing how researchers visualize and study fossil specimens. His significant contributions include developing a new framework for fossil color reconstruction and investigating the potential for powered flight among early birds and their closest relatives. As Principal Investigator of multiple Research Grants Council projects and recipient of numerous teaching awards, he continues to advance the field through innovative research methods and educational initiatives, including serving as instructor for the edX MOOC "Dinosaur Ecosystems." His work extends beyond academia through his roles as Associate Editor of Cladistics, Committee Member of the Hong Kong Regional Group of The Geological Society of London, and various research associate positions at institutions worldwide.