Phylogenetics, population genetics and biodiversity
About
Molecular genetics forms the basis for much of what we do in this research area. Research at the Research School of Biology spans the continuum of population genetics and phylogenetics of bacteria, fungi, plants and animals. Our researchers are at the forefront of new methods in molecular ecology, population genetic analysis and molecular evolution. The results of our work are used to better understand biogeographic history, macroevolutionary patterns, evolution of traits and to inform conservation.
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“We just need to educate people and build awareness of spiders, to show that they’re not actually the bad guys we want them to be.”
What’s the science behind these ghosts?
One of the illustrious founder members of RSBS passed away on 11 April 2021. Jeremy David Pickett-Heaps FAA, FRS worked in the (then) Department of Developmental Biology from 1968-70. His surveys of ultrastructural aspects of cell division in green algae (many collected from Lake Burley Griffin and Sullivan’s Creek) led him to a new formulation of the evolution of the Plant Kingdom, a landmark contribution in the plant sciences, now confirmed and fleshed out by sequencing data.
Australia’s current bushfire crisis could wipe out some of our rarer insect species, according to a group of experts.
As Australia's weather heats up, it could have serious consequences for some of our country's most iconic animals. The research shows marsupials like koalas, possums and gliders are forced to change their eating habits in hot weather because of the toxins found in Eucalyptus leaves.
Red deer on a Scottish island are providing scientists with some of the first evidence that wild animals are evolving to give birth earlier in the year as the climate warms.