The University of Vermont & State Agricultural College was awarded a $331,979 National Science Foundation (NSF) Geosciences program (CFDA 47.050) Project Grant to conduct research on the ecological genomics of adaptation in a rocky shore predator-prey interaction. The research project aims to: 1) determine the level of migration and gene flow among populations of a low dispersing marine snail species, 2) identify genomic patterns of selection using environmental data and detailed phenotypic data from lab-reared individuals, and 3) identify signatures of rapid adaptation and selection imposed by variation in the snail's early-life diet. This research will provide insights into the nature of selective forces in marine environments and the potential for rapid adaptation as climatic conditions change. The project will also increase diversity, awareness, and accessibility of STEM through undergraduate mentorship, graduate filmmaking, and engaging high school students in ecology and evolutionary biology.
Generated 6/18/24, 4:26 AM