Ancestral DNA, Human Origins, and Migrations

Ancestral DNA, Human Origins, and Migrations describes the genesis of humans in Africa and the subsequent story of how our species migrated to every corner of the globe. Different phases of this journey are presented in an integrative format with information from a number of disciplines, including population genetics, evolution, anthropology, archaeology, climatology, linguistics, art, music, folklore and history. This unique approach weaves a story that has synergistic impact in the clarity and level of understanding that will appeal to those researching, studying, and interested in population genetics, evolutionary biology, human migrations, and the beginnings of our species. - Integrates research and information from the fields of genetics, evolution, anthropology, archaeology, climatology, linguistics, art, music, folklore and history, among others - Presents the content in an entertaining and synergistic style to facilitate a deep understanding of human population genetics - Informs on the origins and recent evolution of our species in an approachable manner

Dr. Rene Herrera holds degrees from The City College of the City University of New York (BS), New York University (MS) and Fordham University (Ph.D). He continued his studies in molecular biology/genetic engineering as a postdoctoral associate at The Rockefeller University and New York Medical College. His areas of research include mechanisms underlying control of gene expression at the pre-mRNA splicing level, human evolution and human forensic DNA fingerprinting. He is a frequent contributor to journals in the field of human genetics. Dr. Herrera has established collaborative efforts with several leading scientists worldwide attesting to his philosophy of expanding the reaches of his research. His commitment to creating a professional foundation for future scientific generations has led him to contribute to the education of numerous students as a mentor. A total of 15 Ph.D. and 41 M.S. students obtained their degree under his supervision and hundreds of undergraduate students have benefited from his guidance in conducting research. He has been a member of numerous NIH, NSF and international research evaluation panels and grant evaluator for educational, and underrepresented student programs for decades. He teaches general courses in biology and genetics as well as advanced courses in human genetics, genetics, molecular biology, human evolution, microbiology, forensic DNA fingerprinting and anatomy/physiology. He routinely acts as consultant to the legal profession in issues involving forensic DNA fingerprinting.