Research Areas

Read below to learn more about the extensive research that is conducted in the Genetics Program. Click on each of the research areas to find faculty of interest.

Behavioral / Biomedical

Research groups in the behavioral and biomedical genetics focus area investigate genetic and environmental factors contributing to phenotypes with relevance to human health and disease. Research programs in this focus area use models like C. elegans (worm), D. Melanogaster (fly) and M. musculus (mouse) to study the mechanisms of disease and polymorphic differences within populations that contribute to differential phenotypic variation.

Computation / Bioinformatics

Research groups in the computation and bioinformatics focus area develop new approaches for the management, analysis, and modeling of large, complex data sets. Research programs in this focus area use interdisciplinary techniques, including those from computer science, mathematics, and statistics.

Molecular / Cell / Development

Research groups in the molecular, cellular and developmental genetics focus area study how the expression and function of genes and gene products govern cellular and developmental process in animals and plants. Research programs in this focus area use a variety of model organisms and technologies to identify and investigate the function of individual and groups of genes regulating biological processes.

Population / Quantitative

Research groups in the population and quantitative genetics focus area study of how genetic processes evolve to generate genetic variation in populations of organisms, and the effects on the patterning of variation within and between populations and species. Research programs in this focus area combine a variety of experimental models and analytical approaches to elucidate the role of genetic variation in biological processes.

Academic

Faculty in the academic focus area have scholarly activities focused on improving and delivering genetics education. Faculty in this focus area coordinate laboratory, honors, elective courses, and serve as advisors for undergraduate and graduate students in genetics.