Carl Zimmer

Carl Zimmer
File:Carl Zimmer.jpg Carl Zimmer in 2023
Born	Birth date -1st March 1966 New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.
Education	Yale University (BA)
Occupation	Science writer, journalist
Spouse(s)	Grace Farrell
Children	2

Carl Zimmer (born July 13, 1966) is an American science writer and journalist, known for his books and articles on evolution, parasites, and heredity. He is a regular contributor to The New York Times and has written for numerous other publications. Zimmer is also a lecturer at Yale University, where he teaches writing about science.

Early life and education

Carl Zimmer was born in New Haven, Connecticut, and grew up in Guilford, Connecticut. He attended Yale University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1987. During his time at Yale, Zimmer developed an interest in science writing, which led him to pursue a career in the field.

Career

Zimmer began his career as a writer and editor at Discover magazine, where he worked from 1989 to 1999. During this time, he wrote numerous articles on a wide range of scientific topics, establishing himself as a prominent voice in science journalism.

In 1999, Zimmer published his first book, Parasite Rex: Inside the Bizarre World of Nature's Most Dangerous Creatures, which explores the complex relationships between parasites and their hosts. The book was well-received and helped to cement Zimmer's reputation as a leading science writer.

Zimmer has since authored several other books, including Evolution: The Triumph of an Idea (2001), Soul Made Flesh: The Discovery of the Brain—and How it Changed the World (2004), and She Has Her Mother's Laugh: The Powers, Perversions, and Potential of Heredity (2018). His work often focuses on the themes of evolution, genetics, and the history of science.

In addition to his books, Zimmer is a regular contributor to The New York Times, where he writes the "Matter" column. His articles have also appeared in National Geographic, Scientific American, and The Atlantic, among other publications.

Teaching

Zimmer is a lecturer at Yale University, where he teaches courses on writing about science. His teaching emphasizes the importance of clear communication and storytelling in science writing, helping students to convey complex scientific ideas to a general audience.

Awards and recognition

Carl Zimmer has received numerous awards for his work, including the Stephen Jay Gould Prize from the Society for the Study of Evolution and the AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Award. His ability to make complex scientific topics accessible and engaging has earned him a wide readership and critical acclaim.

Personal life

Zimmer is married to Grace Farrell, and they have two children. He resides in Guilford, Connecticut.

Also see

• Science journalism
• Popular science
• Stephen Jay Gould
• Richard Dawkins