This National Science Foundation (NSF) Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Biology (CFDA 47.074 - Biological Sciences) award for $240,000 will fund a project to investigate the role of transcriptional plasticity in insect host specialization. The 3-year project will study the gene expression patterns of two pine sawfly sister species that differ in their host plant preferences. The research will identify genes that respond to changes in the insects' environment and contribute to their adaptation and potential speciation. Additionally, the award will support the fellow's training in analyzing gene expression data, working with genomic datasets, and preparing evolutionary experiments. Undergraduate students will also participate in independent research as part of a lab course. The project aims to advance scientific understanding of how organisms adapt to changing environments and contribute to preserving biodiversity.
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