MPI AGE seimnar: The genomics of rapid adaptation

About the talk:

Population genetic theory has historically assumed that the selective forces acting on populations are weak, and evolution proceeds gradually. Yet, mounting empirical evidence has shown that strong selection can drive adaptation over fine, ecologically relevant spatial and temporal scales. It remains unknown how pervasively ecological and evolutionary processes interact with one another and, in effect, work to shape and maintain variation in natural populations.

My research addresses these unknowns using experimental evolution with large, genetically diverse populations of Drosophila melanogaster and the procurement of well-resolved time-series genomic data. I will discuss insights from this research, with a particular focus on the role of temporally fluctuating selection and trade-offs in maintaining variation in natural populations, the evolution of complex traits, and the predictability of evolution in nature.

I will go on to outline my research objectives as a Max Planck group leader, which center upon informing more comprehensive theories of adaptation and quantifying how rapid adaptation may impact species responses to global change.