Research

Sexual selection is recognized as a major force driving biodiversity. Comparative studies of closely related species often demonstrate that the traits involved in sexual reproduction are often more divergent than non-sexual traits. From the proteins involved in sperm-egg recognition to the complexity in ornaments and courtship displays, sexual traits, on the whole, represent some of the fastest evolving traits in nature.

In our lab, we study reproductive trait evolution: How do reproductive traits respond to natural and sexual selection? What is the underlying genetic variation and fitness consequences associated with variation in trait expression? How could selection on males and females lead to reproductive isolation?

We use insects as our model systems and study particularly widespread lineages across large geographical clines. Specifically, we are interested in how pre- and postcopulatory sexual selection can result in variation among species and even populations and how such variation might facilitate the generation and maintenance of barriers to reproduction.