The biology of work: reframing organizational behaviour through evolutionary theory

Purpose This paper aims to develop an interdisciplinary conceptual framework that applies principles from evolutionary biology to organizational behaviour and workforce dynamics. It aims to demonstrate how biological mechanisms of natural selection, mutation, genetic drift, epigenetics, speciation and genetic engineering provide powerful metaphors for understanding resilience, adaptability and transformation in contemporary organizations. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a conceptual and metaphorical approach, drawing on established theories from evolutionary biology and mapping them onto organizational behaviour and human resource management. By integrating insights from biology and management theory, this paper proposes a cross-disciplinary lens for analysing how individuals and organizations adapt to turbulent environments. Findings The analysis highlights six evolutionary mechanisms as useful metaphors for organizational life. Natural selection and survival of the fittest explain why some individuals and firms thrive while others disappear. Mutation and genetic drift illustrate how innovation and unintended cultural shifts shape organizations over time. Speciation explains the emergence of subcultures and silos within organizations, while epigenetics emphasizes the role of environmental context in activating employee potential. Genetic engineering captures deliberate, top-down organizational transformation. Together, these metaphors illustrate adaptation as both emergent and intentional, non-linear and multilevel. Originality/value This paper advances organizational theory by systematically applying contemporary biological concepts to HR and OB. It offers novel vocabulary for analysing adaptation in complex, uncertain environments and bridges micro- and macro-level perspectives. This interdisciplinary approach expands theoretical tools available to scholars and provides managers with a fresh lens for designing resilient and future-ready organizations.