Project Detail

Repeated adaptation in wild carnations: the role of shared genetic variation and novel mutations in convergent selection signatures in the genome

Name:	Repeated adaptation in wild carnations: the role of shared genetic variation and novel mutations in convergent selection signatures in the genome
Researchers:	Lipánová (Konečná) Veronika (researcher)
Provider:
Realization from:	2023
Realization to:	2026
Summary:	Understanding the genomic underpinnings of adaptation is a major challenge of contemporary evolutionary biology. Similar selection pressures that drive repeated adaptation across species provide ideal model system. Despite frequent reports of genomic convergence, we know little about mechanisms underlying varying extent of convergence. Specifically, we lack comparative assessments of the relative contribution of shared vs novel genomic variation in rapid convergent adaptation. I will leverage repeated adaptation to similar substrate drivers, such as ionic stress and drought, in two Dianthus species to address the role of spatially fluctuating selection in convergent adaptation to harsh environments. I will combine my experience in plant population genomics with novel skills in statistical genomics, eco-evo experiments and functional approaches gained at my host lab at ETH Zurich. Using an integrative approach, I aim to identify the shared genomic basis of adaptation to challenging soils, thus providing fundamental knowledge for evolutionary biology, crop breeding, and conservation.