research interests
Using genome sequences to uncover predictability in evolution
NeurotoxinsNaturally occurring neurotoxins are important tools that help us understand brain function. I am interested in the ways that organisms evolve toxicity and how they tolerate their own toxins. |
polygenic evolutionResistance to toxins often involves changes in multiple genes. I am studying how snakes evolved resistance to tetrodotoxin found on the skin of their amphibian prey, which appears to occur in a predictable, stepwise pattern of genetic substitution. |
sex chromosomesSex chromosome formation and degradation is a dynamic process. Chromosomes that were once autosomal can evolve into sex chromosomes and can also revert back. I am investigating how this process affects gene expression and rates of evolution. |
