Lascoux lab

Population and evolutionary genetics

Population geneticists spend most of their time doing one of two things: describing the genetic structure of populations or theorizing on the evolutionary forces acting on populations. On a good day, these two activities mesh and true insights emerge. (JH Gillespie, 1998)

Our group is carrying out both empirical and theoretical research. Our main interest is to try to infer the relative importance of the factors that have shaped the present-day genetic structure and variation of populations. Some specific aspects that have interested us lately is the extent of local adaptation at different level of biological integration (phenotype, transcriptome, genome and genes), and the evolution of polyploids. We currently work on different biological systems: the shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) and its relatives, Norway spruce and other spruce species and birches. Most of our theoretical work stems from questions encountered during the development of these and other empirical projects. 

Ongoing research

  • Capsella: Local adaptation, demographic history and polyploidy
  • Spruces: Clinal Variation and local adaptation
  • Birches: Hybridization, introgression and phylogeography of birch species
  • Poplars: Adaptation to drought and evolution of Populus euphratica

For more information, see our research page

Link to our external website

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