Mimulus guttatus. Things may look innocent, but this picture actually captures a heated battle between different plants, males and females, and even alleles of the same genes!
Reproduction is a fundamental property of evolving organisms. Because it is the key determinant of fitness in eukaryotes, reproduction is intuitively view as a conserved process. Yet, reproduction is actually riddled with opportunities for conflict, cooperation, and coevolution --between competing individuals, males and females, parents and offspring, and even genes in the same genome!
In the Finseth lab, we study two main questions:
1) What are the (genetic) causes and (fitness, genomic) consequences of coevolution?
2) What is the genetic basis of adaptations that are important for coevolution?
We complement genomic studies of natural populations with genetic crosses and molecular experiments in the laboratory and natural settings. We currently focus on Mimulus--a California native wildflower that is incredibly diverse (not to mention adorable...). This integrative approach provides insight into the process of evolution, as well as the maintenance of variation in reproductive success—a central issue in human health and agriculture.
In the Finseth lab, we recognize that science is a human endeavor that is greatly improved by working with scientists from diverse backgrounds and expertise. For that reason, we aim to build a climate of inclusion, equity, and respect that welcomes the contributions of all students and future scholars.
Are you interested in joining the lab? We are always looking for students excited about genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and/or plants! I recruit students through either the Keck DEI Open House (usually at the beginning of each semester) and/or through informal interactions. Please do not hesitate to email me if you are interested in developing student projects for theses or research experiences.
ffinseth (at) kecksci (dot) claremont (dot) edu