Mary Jane West-Eberhard

Mary Jane West-Eberhard is an American biologist renowned for her work in evolutionary biology and behavioral ecology. She has significantly contributed to our understanding of how environmental factors influence the evolution of species, particularly in social insects like ants and wasps. Her research highlights the role of development and behavior in shaping evolutionary processes, emphasizing the importance of plasticity—how organisms can adapt to varying conditions. West-Eberhard’s influential book, "Developmental Plasticity and Evolution," explores these themes, bridging developmental biology and evolution to explain how changes in individuals can lead to evolutionary shifts within populations.