Improving access to phylogenomic resources for under-resourced species: a new look at existing tools. This project will have an impact on our understanding of how to most effectively use existing genomic resources to benefit a wider range of species and to better design new genomic resources. By doing so, improved access to genomic resources will be provided to species that currently have few options.
Evolutionary history and conservation of an iconic Australian plant group. This project aims to strengthen biodiversity conservation using evolutionary biology. By using new DNA sequencing technologies the project aims to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the diverse and ecologically important plant family Proteaceae. This will be used to discover how past environmental changes have produced the biodiversity we see today, and forecast likely future changes to biodiversity under expected r ....Evolutionary history and conservation of an iconic Australian plant group. This project aims to strengthen biodiversity conservation using evolutionary biology. By using new DNA sequencing technologies the project aims to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the diverse and ecologically important plant family Proteaceae. This will be used to discover how past environmental changes have produced the biodiversity we see today, and forecast likely future changes to biodiversity under expected rapid environmental change. The key outcome will be a new methodology for a predictive, forward-looking conservation science that accounts explicitly for the dynamic, evolving nature of biodiversity. The key benefit will be a more robust scientific basis for strategic allocation of limited conservation resources.Read moreRead less
The biosynthesis and evolution of novel semiochemicals in orchids. This project aims to discover new enzymes and genes, unlocking new tools for producing useful chemicals. Many plants secure pollination by attracting animal pollinators. How these crucial interactions evolved remains a mystery. Australia is a world centre for pollination by sexual deception in which hundreds of orchids use novel semiochemicals to sexually attract specific pollinators. In this study we aim to: characterise the bio ....The biosynthesis and evolution of novel semiochemicals in orchids. This project aims to discover new enzymes and genes, unlocking new tools for producing useful chemicals. Many plants secure pollination by attracting animal pollinators. How these crucial interactions evolved remains a mystery. Australia is a world centre for pollination by sexual deception in which hundreds of orchids use novel semiochemicals to sexually attract specific pollinators. In this study we aim to: characterise the biosynthetic pathway and molecular basis of these unique semiochemicals; investigate speciation processes with robust orchid phylogenies; and reveal new insights into the evolution of animal pollination. This should also lead to better design options for managing endangered orchids and developing resilient populations.Read moreRead less