Evolution

Our key research theme is rapid evolutionary change in natural populations. We study ecological and evolutionary processes that mediate phenotypic adaptation and genetic dynamics. Several groups are interested in evolutionary ecology of host-parasite interactions, especially focusing on coevolution, ecological immunology, and genotype-specific interactions.  We also study adaptive divergence of natural populations, race formation and ecological speciation.  We use several study systems, most of which are studied both in the field and in the laboratory.

The groups of Prof. Jukka Jokela, Dr. Piet Spaak,and Dr. Katja Raesaenen are mainly interested in these evolutionary questions. More details on the research of these groups can be found on their internet pages.