Molecular mechanisms underlying rapid evolution during invasion

The Speaker: 

Lee Rollins is a Scientia Associate Professor, Director of the Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, and Deputy President of Academic Board at UNSW Sydney. Her research investigates genetic and epigenetic drivers of evolution during exotic species invasion (e.g.  cane toads and starlings). She is keen to understand how environmental factors affect genome function across generations, a topic that likely impacts all organisms on our planet.

Abstract: 

Exotic invasions offer an ideal opportunity to investigate evolution, which often occurs rapidly when organisms are introduced to novel environments. Although ecological correlates of invasion success are well-studied, our knowledge of the underlying molecular mechanisms is poor. In this talk, I will present recent findings from our research group regarding the roles of genetic and epigenetic change during invasion. I will also discuss host-parasite and host-microbiome interactions during invasion, which may promote invasion success. Our research progresses the understanding of how genetics and epigenetics of invasive populations influence rapid evolution during invasion.