The proceeds of research, like careers, are often difficult to predict. A young Adrian Briggs, this week’s featured graduate, would have been surprised by a recent Guardian article mentioning his work. The Max-Planck institute in Leipzig, sequencing Neanderthal mitochondrial DNA, made a remarkable breakthrough in evolutionary anthropology.

Thirteen specific genes suggest that Neanderthals, unlike their early human counterparts, were slow to evolve, existing in populations fewer than 10,000. The researchers hope that a better understanding of similar species will help expose the process of human evolution, perhaps even explaining our remarkable intelligence.

Leipzig seems a long way from the biology department in South Parks. Perhaps this reflects the fascinating and unpredictable consequences of hard work, dedication and individuality.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2008/aug/08/evolution.genetics