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9. Modern Research and Scientific Expeditions
Scientific study in several fields still centres on the East African Rift. Seeking to learn more about our past and the Earth's processes, paleoanthropologists, geologists, climatologists, and biologists from all around the world travel and investigate in the area. Modern technology including sophisticated dating techniques, 3D scanning, and satellite photography are transforming rift valley study.
Founded by paleoanthropologist Richard Leakey, the Turkana Basin Institute represents among the most significant research programs in the area. Combining studies of human origins with enquiries into climate change, ecology, and geology, this institute encourages multidisciplinary study in the Lake Turkana region. Reconstructing the ancient settings in which early humans lived, the Olduvai Landscape Paleoanthropology Project is one of several such efforts.
These studies have pragmatic uses in addition to advancing our knowledge of human evolution and Earth sciences. For instance, geological research is supporting the development of natural resources and the evaluation of geological hazards; studies of previous climatic changes in the rift valley are helping scientists forecast future climate scenarios.
