My research focuses on the evolutionary biology of fishes. I am interested in the large-scale phenomena that have shaped the history and diversification of fishes in both geographic space and geologic time. I use a combination of phylogenetic or "family" trees and detailed anatomical and genomic analyses to understand the evolution and diversification of fishes.
Major projects in my laboratory include:
- The higher-level relationships of spiny-rayed fishes
- The interplay of diversification and character evolution
- The evolution of venom and venom genomes
- Bioluminescence and character evolution in the deep-sea
- The biogeography of Madagascar and Gondwana
If you are interested in opportunities in working in the Division of Fishes or with my lab, I encourage you to contact me directly.
I am currently working on a number of projects with funding from The Field Museum, The Grainger Foundation, The Negaunee Foundation, The Institute of Library and Museum Services, and The National Science Foundation.