Project Summary
Our lab studies natural variation in gene expression. In particular, we are examining the extent to which gene regulation varies within and among species of fruit flies by quantifying variation in the usage of enhancers, which are stretches of DNA that control the transcription of genes. The results will shed light on the ways in which natural phenotypic variation is controlled by differences in gene transcription. Undergraduate students are involved at every step of the project, providing invaluable experience in modern genetics and the analysis of large genomic datasets.