Nesting traits and ontogenetic changes in Dinosauria

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Our knowledge of the paleobiology of dinosaurs and the habitats in which they lived is based on an understanding of fossils and of the geological context in which they occur. Despite the occurrence of exquisitely preserved fossils, the fossil record is biased in terms of preservation and thus many aspects of dinosaur biology are not directly observable or are not preserved. In recent years, an increase in the number of discoveries of eggs, embryos and juveniles of dinosaurs have allowed paleontologists to begin to investigate poorly known aspects of dinosaur biology, including nesting, reproduction, and early growth, but many research avenues within these areas remain to be explored. The long-term objective of my research program is to advance our knowledge of the reproduction and development of dinosaurs through the study of dinosaur fossils and their paleoenvironmental settings and through comparisons with the closest living relatives of dinosaurs: birds and crocodiles. The current program will feed into this long-term objective by investigating research themes related to: 1) paleoenvironmental reconstruction of nesting sites in order to understand nesting habitats, behaviors, and adaptations among dinosaurs; and 2) morphological changes that occurred as animals grew in order to understand growth patterns and the timing of development of features and behaviors among dinosaurs. Ultimately, understanding the evolutionary history of these various traits and behaviors among dinosaurs will provide insight into the origin of birds, and significantly advance our knowledge of dinosaur paleobiology and paleoecology. The field work portion of this research will primarily take place in the badlands of Alberta, a province that is known for its world-class dinosaur discoveries. The research program will also result in the discovery of new fossil specimens, species, and localities through field studies and museum/lab work, leading to the protection and preservation of fossils for future generations. In addition to contributing to our scientific knowledge and training and teaching of many students, results of this research will be relayed to the general public through outreach events, museum exhibits, presentations, popular books, magazines, and news media.