We investigate fundamental questions in ecology and evolutionary biology using a range of species and methods. While we primarily work upon butterflies, we also have collaborations with people working on mussels, dragonflies, beetles and fish. Although we extensively use OMICS data (whole genome sequencing, RNA-seq, metabolomics, miRNAseq, etc.), we also use butterfly nets, respirometers, and lots of butterfly cages. Our goal is to use genomic approaches (comparative genomics, transcriptomics, population genomics, GWAS) to identify candidate loci of adaptive importance, and then test these hypotheses using triangulation and functional validation (CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis).
Group Members:
Saurav Baral
Brenda Medina
Sridhar Halali