Ongoing Projects

I study the evolution and genetics underlying biological systems. I characterize biological systems as broad functional modules that include intertwining components such as anatomical structures, physiological processes, ontogeny, neurology, and genetics. Specific systems I am interested in are vocalization production, digestion, locomotion, and perception. I get particularly excited about adaptation within systems in the context of an lineage’s historical ecology.

Primate vocalization project

This project aims to (1) describe differences between close-relative vocalization repertoires and (2) understand how vocal repertoires change over evolutionary distances and ecological profiles. We are currently focused on Cebid species, and are excited to expand into Pitheciids this coming year. We are very fortunate to partner with many institutions including the Santa Ana Zoo, the the National Primate Center in Ananindeua, Brazil, and countless individual researchers.

As a sub-project, we are also examining the vocal profiles of hybrids in context of parental species’ profiles. Publication coming soon!

Primate coloration project

This project attempts to synthesize knowledge on the genetics that underlie coloration patterns in platytrrhines. This project is largely spearheaded by my undergraduate mentee, Lise Tucker. Publications coming soon!

Genetics of platyrrhines

Though more of a general topic than a unified “project,” much of my time recently has been spent on bioinformatic analyses for various papers interested in some genetic component of platyrrhines. I am very excited for more of these papers to come out!