Diamond grew up in Boston and attended Roxbury Latin School. He later studied at Harvard University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in anthropology in 1958. He then went on to complete a Ph.D. in physiology at the University of Cambridge in 1961.

Diamond started his academic career as a professor of physiology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Later, he shifted his focus to the fields of ecology and evolutionary biology. He became a professor of geography and environmental health sciences at UCLA and a member of the National Academy of Sciences.

Diamond’s research spans a wide range of topics, including ecology, ornithology (the study of birds), and biogeography. He is best known for his work in human evolution, environmental history, and the factors that contribute to the success or failure of human societies.

One of Diamond’s most notable works is the Pulitzer Prize-winning book “Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies” (1997). In this book, Diamond explores the reasons behind the disparities in human development and societal achievements around the world. He argues that historical and environmental factors, such as geography, agriculture, and the domestication of animals, played significant roles in shaping the destinies of different human societies.

He also authored other influential books, including “Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed” (2005), where he examines the environmental and societal factors that lead to the collapse of civilizations.

Jared Diamond is widely respected for his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broader audience. His works have contributed to a deeper understanding of human history, environmental science, and anthropology. Diamond’s interdisciplinary approach has inspired numerous researchers and readers, making him a prominent figure in the field of popular science writing.