The evolution of light detection and its impacts on early vertebrate evolution. The eye is a complex organ crucial for survival. Tracing the evolution of the eye will not only provide basic concepts of how building visual complexity is achieved in nature but also enhance the understanding of the selection pressures driving the radiation of early vertebrates.
The spatial energetics of pollination failure in habitat restoration. This project addresses the reasons for pollination failure of threatened plant species during habitat restoration. Specifically, the project will determine the role of energetic constraints on pollinator movement in the hostile landscape matrix surrounding urban woodland remnants, and model future scenarios for restoring natural functioning woodland ecosystems.