Evolutionary and Conservation Genetics

Understanding how species evolve requires not only knowledge about their biology, but also information about the genes that control their development. Research laboratories at MSU are actively exploring evolution in a wide spectrum of organisms including viruses, conifers, monkey flowers, fish, migratory birds, dogs and even artificial, digital organisms. Characterizations of genetic variability play a key role in defining strategies for species conservation, which by definition, seeks to protect a threatened gene pool.

Investigating the role of both random and directional forces in shaping species is the focus of most research groups. Active efforts are underway to characterize the mechanisms of adaptation and the complex genetic interactions that define them. Of particular interest are the temporal and spacial patterns in environmental grids and the resulting adaptive variation. Direct tests of evolutionary hypotheses are being undertaken in the bacteria E. coli to take advantage of their rapid generations and large populations. Other kinds of research interests involve the evolution of pathogenic forms of E. coli, the factors making plant viruses infective, the role of chromosome doubling in plant evolution and the mechanisms that drive patterns of soil microbial distribution. Several groups are working to determine the most effective ways to predict the genetic "health" of natural communities and measuring the ecological impact of genetically modified plants.