Research

Artwork courtesy of  A. E. Johnson

My first day doing lab work in the Fuller Lab.

Reproductive isolation in the Long-tailed Finch (Poephila acuticauda)

I use a hybrid zone of two Long-tailed Finch subspecies to investigate the potential role of mitonuclear incompatibilities with the sex chromosomes in the development of reproductive isolation. I use mitochondrial and Z chromosome admixture to evaluate patterns across almost the entire habitat range of the Long-tailed Finch. I’m mentored by postdoctoral researcher Dr. Daniel Hooper. In collaboration with Macquarie University and the University of Chicago.

Lopez, K. A., McDiarmid, C. S., Griffith, S. C., Lovette, I. J., Hooper, D. M. Mitonuclear incompatibilities with the sex chromosomes suggested in the emergence of reproductive isolation within an avian hybrid zone. In revision, Evolution.

An article about some of my research experiences: https://as.cornell.edu/news/sophomore-reflects-opportunities-do-research

Conservation genetics of the Black-throated Finch (Poephila cincta)

I’m using reduced representation double digest restriction site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq) to evaluate genetic differentiation between the two subspecies of the Black-throated Finch. The southern subspecies, cincta, is threatened by the development of the Adani/Carmichael Coal mine in their last remaining stable habitats. I evaluate potential genetic consequences of this population decline to help inform conservation management. 

Behavioral Evolution of the Superb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae)

In the Summer of 2019, I participated in an NSF REU where I had the opportunity to study the Superb Lyrebird. I worked with the Lyrebird Lab in collaboration with the University of Wollongong and the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment at Western Sydney University. I’m currently analyzing song recordings in order to investigate sex differences in mimetic accuracy of lyrebirds. Read more about field work and research here!