In my research, I study the evolution of morphological diversity in vertebrates and examine how design relates to function. I focus on vertebrate traits and systems that are ecologically relevant.
While I am fascinated by a multitude of complex systems in biology, I am particularly interested in traits associated with the vertebrate communication system (incl. signal design and sensory apparatus) and the integumentary system (incl. skin surface structures and skin appendages, such as claws and toepads).
While I am fascinated by a multitude of complex systems in biology, I am particularly interested in traits associated with the vertebrate communication system (incl. signal design and sensory apparatus) and the integumentary system (incl. skin surface structures and skin appendages, such as claws and toepads).
SCIENTIFIC INTERESTS
Evolution and function of complex systems in vertebrates
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Understanding the evolution and evolvability of ecologically relevant organismal systems is challenging, particularly for complex systems with multiple functions. However, in recent years, spectacular advances in technology are providing us with the necessary toolkits to overcome these challenges. |
My studies require a mixture of research approaches.
- To examine morphology, I make use of a combination of several bio-imaging techniques that visualizes structures on the macro- (e.g. 2D X-ray), micro- (e.g. µCT, gel-based stereo-profilometry), and nanoscale (e.g. SEM, AFM). Using traditional and geometric morphometrics, I quantify form variation.
- To study patterns of morphological diversity among species, I take a phylogenetic comparative approach. Advanced comparative statistics and evolutionary models enable me to test how universal (or idiosyncratic) particular design solutions are, to evaluate trends of co-evolution and evolutionary convergence, and to compare rates of morphological evolution among clades or between traits, among others.
- By taking an experimental and mechanistic approach, I examine design-function relationships (e.g. using optical and biomechanical tests) and assess the ecological relevance of design diversity (e.g. using behavioral observations). I combine lab- and field-based experiments and conduct in vivo en ex vivo tests to acquire a total understanding of organismal function in nature.
Lizards have been an excellent vertebrate group to answer my research questions, largely because (1) they show great morphological and ecological diversity among (closely-related) species, (2) they are a species-rich vertebrate clade, and (3) the phylogenetic relationships among lizard species are well supported.
Research Area
