Overview
The role of mitochondrial physiology in animal evolution
My research program focuses on the role of mitochondrial physiology in evolutionary processes such as adaptation, co-evolution of genomes, life-history evolution, and sexual selection. There are two specific aspects of mitochondria that are key to my research: 1) the canonical depiction of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) is not representative of most eukaryotes and 2) mitochondrial-nuclear interactions are required for mitochondrial function.
Current Projects
The evolution of sex, mitochondrial mutation rates, and mitonuclear interactions
AOX
The alternative oxidase (AOX) in animal mitochondria
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Facultative SexEnvironment-Physiology interactions on mode of reproduction
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mtDNA Mutation Rates
Mitochondrial dynamics and mutation accumulation rates
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Side Projects
Painted Bunting
Investigating the molecular and structural basis for the coloration of the most colorful bird in North America
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Sapsucker Hybridization
Hybridization, mitochondrial divergence, and ketocarotenoid production
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Volcano Shrimp
Population-specific ketocarotenoid production in Halocaridina rubra
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Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSF.
