Birmingham Native, Renowned Scientist Edward O. Wilson Dies At 92

BURLINGTON, MA — World renowned biologist Edward O. Wilson, a Birmingham native, died Sunday at his home in Massachusetts, leaving behind decades of work in natural science that earned him the title "Darwin's natural heir."

Wilson studied at the University of Alabama and at Harvard University. He rose to prominence in the 1970s as an entomologist, studying the behavior of ants and similar species. Those studies led him to the theory of sociobiology, asserting that genetic traits play a role in human and animal development.

Wilson also founded the discipline of biogeography, and unifying concepts like biophilia, biodiversity studies and consilience. He founded the E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation in 2005.

"Through a relentless pursuit of new knowledge, our friend E.O. Wilson taught us to view the natural world in fresh and inspiring ways," UA President Stuart Bell said in a statement Monday. "His legendary work will continue to encourage future generations of students who are passionate about science and innovation."

Wilson won a Pulitzer Prize in 1979 for "On Human Nature" and another Pulitzer in 1991 for "The Ants," which Wilson co-wrote with Harvard colleague Bert Holldobler. Time magazine named him one of America’s 25 most influential people in 1996.

The foundation is planning a memorial service for Wilson sometime in 2022.

Patch editor Neal McNamara contributed to this report.

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