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The Ostevik Lab studies the evolutionary processes that generate biodiversity, with a focus on adaptation and speciation in natural plant populations. We are especially interested in how ecological context and genomic architecture interact to drive lineage divergence, and in how reproductive isolation evolves and is maintained—even in the face of ongoing gene flow. Our work draws on a combination of field experiments, greenhouse crosses, genomic and population genetic analyses, and comparative studies across multiple taxa. Broad themes in the lab include reproductive isolation, hybridization, chromosomal evolution, coevolution and parasitism, and climate adaptation.
Adaptation: Local Environments, Genetic Elements, and Coevolution
Adaptation: Local Environments, Genetic Elements, and Coevolution
Our adaptation projects investigate how populations evolve in response to novel biotic and abiotic environments, and how these adaptations may facilitate genomic divergence and speciation. This work not only advances our understanding of evolutionary processes but also informs efforts in crop improvement and biodiversity conservation.
Teddy is interested in how adaptation to novel environments drives population divergence and how genetic elements like inversions and transposable elements facilitate this process. Conner examines host-parasite coevolution using a population genetic framework, investigating how local climates modulate evolutionary dynamics between species. Rajesh uses GWAS and resurrection approaches to investigate the genetic basis of drought adaptation, associating genotypes and phenotypes and comparing historical and modern seed samples to understand how sunflower populations respond to climate change over time.
Speciation: Pollination, Hybridization, and Chromosomes
Speciation: Pollination, Hybridization, and Chromosomes
Our speciation projects are focused on how reproductive barriers arise and are maintained—particularly when closely related species occur in sympatry. We explore how chromosomal rearrangements, mating system/pollination differences, and ecological context contribute to reproductive isolation and help species maintain distinct identities despite gene flow.
Gangothri investigates the ecological and genetic mechanisms of hybrid speciation in Penstemon, aiming to understand how hybridization can give rise to new species. Brennan’s research focuses on the development of reproductive barriers in sympatric species, including how mating system divergence and chromosomal changes shape gene flow. Kate is especially interested in pollen-pistil interactions and the role of sexual selection in the evolution of reproductive barriers in flowering plants.
Banner photo: Sunflower collecting trip in the Algodones Dunes, CA. Photo by Brook Moyers.
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