GEERAT VERMEIJ
Geerat Vermeij is an accomplished scientist who studies shells and mollusks. He uses his findings to explain concepts of biology, evolution, and even human history. He’s an esteemed professor of geobiology—the study of life and earth sciences—and paleobiology—the study of fossils and plants—at the University of California, Davis. He’s also the author of six books. Vermeij lost his sight at the age of three, so he uses his sense of touch to investigate the shapes and features of the shells he loves.
WHEN DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN SCIENCE?
From the earliest age, I was interested in nature. I started collecting shells quite early on. I think the idea of spending my life in science happened in fourth grade. I told everyone. At first, I wanted to be
