Elen Feuerriegel (she/her)

I am a part-time lecturer here in the Department of Anthropology. My research interests lie predominantly in evolutionary biomechanics with special interest in the functional morphology of the upper limb (shoulder and elbow) and hand. I am one of the scientists responsible for excavating and describing Homo naledi, a new species of fossil hominin found in the Rising Star cave system in the Cradle of Humankind, South Africa. Aside from research, I also assist in managing the Primate Evolutionary Biomechanics Laboratory and mentor undergraduate students in biomechanics.

I am very passionate about science education outreach and promoting the work of women in STEM fields.

On-going projects: 

'The biomechanics of armswing during walking: Implications of arm segment lengths'

'Rock climbing in the Quaternary: A biomechanical comparison of rock climbing grips and under-branch suspensory grips'

'The Upper Limb of Homo naledi'