Phylogeny and evolution of C4 photosynthesis in Pectis

This project is closed.

This is an opportunity for a student to get valuable lab experience while participating in a systematic study of plants in the Sunflower family. Work may include extracting DNA from plants, performing PCR experiments and cloning PCR products.
Our study examines the evolution of Pectis, a genus of ±85 plant species (related to sunflowers) found in hot, dry areas of North and South America. Many Pectis species are unusual in that they take up carbon from the air via “C4 photosynthesis” (versus “C3 photosynthesis”, which most plants use). The C4 process allows plants to grow better in hot, dry and/or nutrient-starved conditions. C4 photosynthesis may have allowed Pectis to expand into new environments and speciate more rapidly than its C3 relatives.
We will use statistical analysis to compare rates of speciation between C3 and C4 species of Pectis and Poropyllum and test hypotheses regarding taxonomy, biogeography, and the evolution of C4 photosynthesis in Pectis.

Qualifications

Prior research or course work experience in a molecular lab is great, but willing and enthusiastic beginners are also encouraged.

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