Molecular Co-evolution

Our overarching goal is to understand how the functions of proteins and their networks change over time. We are particularly focused on the process of co-evolution within functional networks and the ways by which proteins influence each other during evolution. We study a variety of organisms ranging from single cells to primates. Currently we perform experiments in yeast and bacteria to retrace the evolution of protein function, while our computational studies are based in yeast species, Drosophila, and mammals.

Specific Research Topics

Convergent Evolution

A powerful way to identify the genetic regions underlying a particular phenotype is to study groups of species that independently adopted that phenotype. We develop and apply comparative genomics methods that use phenotypic convergence to discover genes and regulatory regions related to a phenotype.

Evolution of Female-Male Interactions in the Cabbage White Butterfly

Post-copulatory interactions between males and females have been shaped by a complex set of competitive and conflictive forces, resulting in specialized male and female traits.

Evolutionary Rate Covariation (ERC)

ERC is a phylogenetic signature that reflects co-functionality between genes. We develop genome-wide datasets of ERC to provide co-evolutionary predictions and to interpret major functional shifts during evolution.
ERC Analysis webserver

For further reading visit our research page.